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
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 nadir and pre-doseEchocardiogram (but less frequent than doxorubicin)Hepatic functionCatheter patency
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 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.
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