đź’Š DESCRIPTION
Temozolomide 250 mg Capsule is a high-dose oral chemotherapy drug used for the treatment of aggressive brain tumors. It is part of the alkylating agents class and is taken orally. This strength is typically used in dose-escalation protocols or in patients requiring higher individual doses based on body surface area (BSA).
- Generic Name: Temozolomide
- Strength: 250 mg per capsule
- Route: Oral
- Form: Hard gelatin capsule
- Drug Class: Imidazotetrazine derivative (alkylating agent)
- Common Brands: Temodar®, Temonat®, Temcad®, Temozet®, Temcit®
âś… ADVANTAGES
- High-dose capsule reduces pill burden for patients on large-dose regimens
- Crosses the blood-brain barrier effectively
- Suitable for maintenance therapy in glioblastoma
- Allows for dose titration in personalized regimens
- Available in multiple strengths to support exact dosing
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- Hematological toxicity:
- May cause neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia – regular blood count monitoring required
- Gastrointestinal effects:
- Nausea, vomiting – pre-treat with antiemetics
- Pneumocystis pneumonia (PJP) prophylaxis may be needed with concurrent radiation
- Use with caution in:
- Hepatic or renal impairment
- Elderly patients
- Pregnancy Category D: Avoid in pregnancy; may cause fetal harm
- Avoid breastfeeding during and for at least 1 week after last dose
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at 15°C to 30°C
- Protect from light and moisture
- Keep capsules in original container until use
- Do not handle broken capsules with bare hands
👨‍⚕️ PATIENT ADVICE
- Follow dosing schedule strictly – usually 5 days on, 23 days off
- Report signs of:
- Fever, sore throat, infections
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe or persistent nausea/vomiting
- Regular blood tests required before and during each treatment cycle
- Avoid live vaccines
- Use effective contraception during treatment and 6 months after
- Family members assisting with medication should wear gloves
📦 PACKAGING
- Available in blister packs or HDPE bottles
- Each 250 mg capsule:
- Typically opaque blue/white or white/light brown, depending on the brand
- Clearly marked with strength
- Pack sizes: Often 5, 14, or 28 capsules
- Labeled as cytotoxic; includes special handling instructions