Onivyde

• Onivyde is an antineoplastic agent formulated as a liposomal irinotecan.
• It is primarily indicated for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma that has progressed after prior therapy.
• The medication works by inhibiting DNA topoisomerase I, leading to cell death in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
• Common side effects include severe diarrhea, myelosuppression, nausea, and fatigue.
• Onivyde is administered intravenously and requires careful monitoring by healthcare professionals.

What is Onivyde? Drug Overview and Information

Onivyde is a liposomal formulation of irinotecan, an antineoplastic agent. This medication is specifically designed to deliver the active drug, irinotecan, more effectively to tumor sites while potentially reducing systemic toxicity. As a crucial piece of Onivyde drug information, it is important to understand that it belongs to a class of drugs known as topoisomerase I inhibitors. The liposomal encapsulation helps prolong the circulation time of irinotecan in the bloodstream, allowing for increased accumulation in tumors.

This specialized formulation is administered intravenously, typically in a hospital or clinic setting. Its use is carefully managed by healthcare professionals experienced in administering chemotherapy. The development of Onivyde represents an advancement in delivering established chemotherapeutic agents, aiming to improve efficacy and patient outcomes in specific cancer types.

What is Onivyde Used For? Indications and Dosage

Onivyde is primarily indicated for the treatment of metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Specifically, it is used in adult patients whose cancer has progressed after gemcitabine-based therapy. The question of what is Onivyde used for is critical for understanding its clinical role. It is typically administered in combination with fluorouracil (5-FU) and leucovorin (LV), forming a regimen known as NALIRIFOX (Nanoparticle Liposomal Irinotecan, Fluorouracil, Leucovorin).

The recommended dosage of Onivyde is 70 mg/m² administered intravenously over 90 minutes every two weeks. This dosage is based on the patient’s body surface area and is adjusted by the treating physician based on the patient’s tolerance and response to treatment. Pre-medication with antiemetics is often recommended to manage potential nausea and vomiting. Close monitoring of blood counts and liver function is essential throughout the treatment course to manage potential toxicities.

Mechanism of Action and Potential Side Effects of Onivyde

The Onivyde mechanism of action involves its active metabolite, SN-38, which is released from the liposomal formulation. SN-38 functions as a topoisomerase I inhibitor. Topoisomerase I is an enzyme crucial for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. By inhibiting this enzyme, SN-38 causes single-strand DNA breaks to accumulate during DNA synthesis, which ultimately leads to programmed cell death (apoptosis) in rapidly dividing cancer cells. This targeted interference with DNA processes is fundamental to its antineoplastic activity.

Patients receiving Onivyde may experience various Onivyde side effects. These can range from mild to severe and require careful management. Common side effects include:

• Diarrhea (often severe and requiring anti-diarrheal medication)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and asthenia
• Myelosuppression (low blood cell counts), including neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia
• Abdominal pain
• Stomatitis (mouth sores)
• Fever

More serious side effects, though less common, can include severe myelosuppression leading to infections, severe dehydration due to diarrhea, and interstitial lung disease. Patients are closely monitored for these adverse reactions, and dose adjustments or supportive care may be necessary to manage them effectively. It is crucial for patients to report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.