Epimer of doxorubicin with same mechanism (DNA intercalation, topoisomerase II inhibition, free radical generation) but with reduced cardiotoxicity and more rapid clearance. Cell-cycle non-specific.
At a glance
Class
Anthracycline Antibiotic (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Refrigerate 2–8°C; protect from light; stable 24h at room temperature; chemotherapy precautions
Dosing
Used as substitute for doxorubicin in lymphoma and solid tumor protocols when ca
May be preferred over doxorubicin in cats due to reduced cardiotoxicity
Safety
CBC at nadir and pre-doseEchocardiogram (but less frequent than doxorubicin)Hepatic functionCatheter patency
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Epirubicin?
Epirubicin is a anthracycline antibiotic (chemotherapy) used in pets. Epimer of doxorubicin with same mechanism (DNA intercalation, topoisomerase II inhibition, free radical generation) but with reduced cardiotoxicity and more rapid clearance. Cell-cycle non-specific.
›What is Epirubicin used for in pets?
Epirubicin is used in veterinary medicine for: Used as substitute for doxorubicin in lymphoma and solid tumor protocols when ca; May be preferred over doxorubicin in cats due to reduced cardiotoxicity.
›What is the Epirubicin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Epirubicin is typically dosed as follows — Used as substitute for doxorubicin in lymphoma and solid tumor protocols when ca: 30 mg/m² PO q3 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Epirubicin dose for cats?
For cats, Epirubicin is typically dosed as follows — May be preferred over doxorubicin in cats due to reduced cardiotoxicity: 1 mg/kg IV q3 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Epirubicin need a prescription?
Yes. Epirubicin 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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