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
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.
Find a vet near you →Safety
CBC at nadirHepatic enzymesCatheter site integrityGI tolerance
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.
Find a vet near you →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.
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.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database