đź’Š DESCRIPTION
Temozolomide 100 mg Capsule is an oral alkylating anticancer drug used primarily for the treatment of malignant brain tumors. It interferes with the DNA replication of cancer cells, leading to cell death.
- Generic Name: Temozolomide
- Strength: 100 mg per capsule
- Route: Oral
- Form: Hard gelatin capsule
- Drug Class: Alkylating agent (Imidazotetrazine derivative)
- Common Brands: Temodar®, Temonat®, Temcad®, Temozet®, Temcit®, Temotero®
âś… ADVANTAGES
- Effective first-line treatment for high-grade gliomas
- Crosses the blood-brain barrier, unlike many chemotherapeutic agents
- Convenient oral dosing, allows outpatient treatment
- Fewer cumulative toxicities compared to older alkylating agents
- Compatible with radiation therapy and used in both initial and maintenance phases
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- Hematologic toxicity:
- Monitor for neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia
- Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting – give with antiemetics
- Infection risk: Especially with concurrent radiation therapy; PJP prophylaxis may be necessary
- Hepatic/renal impairment: Use with caution and dose adjustment
- Pregnancy Category D: Teratogenic – avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Not routinely used in children without specialist advice
- Avoid use if hypersensitive to temozolomide or dacarbazine
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at 15°C to 30°C
- Protect from moisture and light
- Keep in original blister or bottle
- Keep out of reach of children
👨‍⚕️ PATIENT ADVICE
- Take exactly as prescribed, usually for 5 days per cycle
- Take at the same time daily to maintain steady drug levels
- Use anti-nausea medications as advised
- Report:
- Signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat)
- Unusual bleeding/bruising
- Severe fatigue or vomiting
- Maintain regular blood tests to check counts before each cycle
- Avoid live vaccines
- Use effective contraception during and 6 months after treatment
📦 PACKAGING
- Supplied in blister packs or HDPE bottles
- Common pack sizes: 5, 14, or 28 capsules
- Capsules:
- Hard gelatin capsule, often opaque pink or white, clearly labeled “100 mg”
- Must be handled with gloves if broken
- Include cytotoxic warning and handling instructions