đź’Š DESCRIPTION
Temozolomide 20 mg Capsule is an oral alkylating agent used mainly in the treatment of brain tumors, especially glioblastoma multiforme and anaplastic astrocytoma. It is a prodrug that undergoes spontaneous conversion to the active compound MTIC (monomethyl triazeno imidazole carboxamide).
- Generic Name: Temozolomide
- Strength: 20 mg per capsule
- Route: Oral
- Form: Hard gelatin capsule
- Drug Class: Alkylating agent (Imidazotetrazine derivative)
- Common Brands: Temodar®, Temonat®, Temcad®, Temozet®
âś… ADVANTAGES
- Crosses the blood-brain barrier effectively
- Oral formulation eliminates need for IV infusion
- Active against high-grade gliomas
- Can be used with radiation therapy (concurrent or adjuvant)
- Mild non-cumulative toxicity profile compared to older alkylating agents
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- Myelosuppression: Risk of neutropenia, thrombocytopenia → monitor CBC
- Nausea and vomiting: Very common; pre-medication with antiemetics recommended
- Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) prophylaxis may be required during concurrent use with radiation
- Use with caution in:
- Renal or hepatic impairment
- Patients with prior bone marrow suppression
- Avoid pregnancy – teratogenic; use effective contraception during and 6 months after therapy
- Not recommended for pediatric use without specialist guidance
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at 15°C to 30°C
- Protect from moisture and light
- Keep in original packaging until use
- Keep out of reach of children
👨‍⚕️ PATIENT ADVICE
- Take on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after food)
- Swallow whole; do not open or crush capsules
- Follow exact dosing schedule prescribed by oncologist (e.g., 5 days on, 23 days off in 28-day cycle)
- Take anti-nausea medication as prescribed
- Report:
- Unusual bleeding, bruising
- Fever, infections
- Persistent vomiting, fatigue
- Regular blood tests (CBC) required before each cycle
- Avoid close contact with sick people during periods of low immunity
- Use gloves if handling broken capsules or if assisting patient
📦 PACKAGING
- Supplied in blister packs or HDPE bottles
- Each 20 mg capsule typically has:
- Light-colored body and cap
- Clear labeling of strength and brand
- Available in packs of 5, 14, or 28 capsules depending on regimen
- Includes cytotoxic handling instructions