OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml Concentrate for solution for infusion

What is OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml

OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml is a platinum-based chemotherapy medication primarily used in the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer. Each 20 ml glass vial contains 100 mg of oxaliplatin in concentrate form, which is later diluted for intravenous infusion. This medication is typically used in combination with other agents such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and leucovorin (LV).

• Generic Name: Oxaliplatin
• Brand: AQVIDA
• Therapeutic Class: Antineoplastic agent
• Form: Concentrate for solution for infusion
• Primary Use: Treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer and adjuvant therapy in stage III colon cancer post-surgery

This medication works by interfering with the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing. As a result, tumor progression is slowed or stopped.

How to use OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml

OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA should be administered under the supervision of a qualified oncologist experienced in chemotherapy. It must never be given as an undiluted intravenous injection.

• Preparation: The concentrate must be diluted in 5% glucose solution to a concentration between 0.2 mg/ml and 0.7 mg/ml prior to administration.
• Administration Route: Intravenous infusion over 2 to 6 hours.
• Combination Therapy: Often used alongside 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin.
• Cycle: Usually given every 2 weeks.
• Precautions: Avoid extravasation, monitor renal and liver function, and assess for signs of peripheral neuropathy before and during treatment.

The patient should be well-hydrated, and antiemetics may be administered to prevent nausea and vomiting. Ensure proper handling by trained personnel using personal protective equipment.

Mode of Action OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml

Oxaliplatin, the active ingredient in OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA, belongs to the platinum class of chemotherapy agents.

• DNA Crosslinking: Oxaliplatin forms platinum-DNA adducts that result in crosslinking of DNA strands, inhibiting DNA replication and transcription.
• Apoptosis Induction: This disruption activates cell death pathways leading to apoptosis (programmed cell death) in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
• Non-Cell Cycle Specific: Unlike some agents, oxaliplatin acts in all phases of the cell cycle.
• Synergistic Effects: It shows increased efficacy when combined with 5-FU and LV, enhancing the inhibition of DNA synthesis.

Despite its mechanism being similar to cisplatin, oxaliplatin has a distinct side effect profile and often induces less nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity.

OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml Interactions OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml

Drug interactions may alter how OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA works or increase the risk of side effects. Some notable interactions include:

• Nephrotoxic Drugs: Concurrent use with aminoglycosides or other nephrotoxic agents may increase the risk of kidney damage.
• Live Vaccines: Avoid use with live vaccines (e.g., yellow fever) due to immunosuppression.
• 5-Fluorouracil: Commonly co-administered; dose adjustments may be required due to increased toxicity risk.
• Anticoagulants: Increased risk of bleeding when used with warfarin or other blood thinners; close monitoring is advised.
• Cold Exposure: Sensory neuropathy associated with oxaliplatin can worsen with cold exposure; avoid cold drinks and environments during treatment cycles.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products being taken to avoid harmful interactions.

Dosage of OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml

The dosage of OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA is determined by several factors including the patient’s body surface area (BSA), treatment regimen, and renal function.

• Standard Dose: 85 mg/m² IV infusion every 2 weeks in combination therapy (e.g., FOLFOX regimen).
• Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be required in moderate renal dysfunction; not recommended in severe renal impairment.
• Infusion Duration: Administered over 2–6 hours depending on combination agents and patient tolerance.
• Pre-treatment: Antiemetics are usually given before infusion to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
• Cycle Length: Typically repeated every 14 days, but duration and frequency may vary depending on treatment response and tolerability.

Doses must be calculated accurately and prepared under aseptic conditions by oncology-trained professionals. Monitoring is essential during and after infusion for early detection of adverse effects.

Possible side effects of OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml

As with all chemotherapy agents, oxaliplatin can cause a variety of side effects, ranging from mild to severe.

• Very Common:
  • Peripheral sensory neuropathy (numbness, tingling, cold sensitivity)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Hematologic changes (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
• Common:
  • Anemia
  • Mucositis
  • Anorexia
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching)
• Rare but Serious:
  • Laryngospasm
  • Severe hypersensitivity reactions
  • Interstitial lung disease
  • Rhabdomyolysis

Patients must be closely monitored for neurological symptoms, especially cumulative sensory neuropathy. Report any concerning signs immediately to your healthcare provider.

OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml Contraindications OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml

OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Known hypersensitivity to oxaliplatin or other platinum-based compounds
• Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min)
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Due to teratogenic effects, use is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.
• Severe bone marrow suppression or existing myelosuppression
• Peripheral neuropathy: Patients with pre-existing significant peripheral neuropathy should not use oxaliplatin

Careful risk assessment must be performed before initiating therapy, and alternative treatments should be considered when these contraindications are present.

Storage of OXALIPLATIN AQVIDA 5 mg/ml

Proper storage of chemotherapy medications ensures efficacy and safety.

• Before dilution:
  • Store the vial between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)
  • Do not freeze
  • Keep in original outer carton to protect from light
• After dilution:
  • Use immediately; however, the diluted solution may be stored for up to 24 hours at 2°C to 8°C if prepared in aseptic conditions
• Handling Instructions:
  • Only trained professionals should handle
  • Use protective gloves and equipment
  • Dispose of unused medication in accordance with local cytotoxic waste protocols

Always keep the medicine out of reach of children and never use it past the expiry date.