Intercalates into DNA minor groove at GC-rich sequences, blocking RNA polymerase and inhibiting transcription. Also inhibits topoisomerase II. Cell-cycle non-specific. Potent radiation sensitizer.
At a glance
Class
Antitumor Antibiotic (Actinomycin D)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Store at room temperature; reconstituted stable 4h at room temperature; chemotherapy precautions
Dosing
Used for lymphoma rescue protocols, soft tissue sarcomas, and bone tumors
Safety
CBC at nadirHepatic enzymesCatheter site integrityGI tolerance
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Dactinomycin?
Dactinomycin is a antitumor antibiotic (actinomycin d) used in pets. Intercalates into DNA minor groove at GC-rich sequences, blocking RNA polymerase and inhibiting transcription. Also inhibits topoisomerase II. Cell-cycle non-specific. Potent radiation sensitizer.
›What is Dactinomycin used for in pets?
Dactinomycin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for lymphoma rescue protocols, soft tissue sarcomas, and bone tumors; Rarely used in cats.
›What is the Dactinomycin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dactinomycin is typically dosed as follows — Used for lymphoma rescue protocols, soft tissue sarcomas, and bone tumors: 0.5–0.9 mg/m² PO q2–3 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Dactinomycin dose for cats?
For cats, Dactinomycin is typically dosed as follows — Rarely used in cats: 0.5–0.7 mg/m² IV q3 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Dactinomycin need a prescription?
Yes. Dactinomycin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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