Intercalates into DNA and inhibits topoisomerase II, causing DNA strand breaks. Also generates free radicals causing oxidative damage. Cell-cycle non-specific but most active in S-phase.
At a glance
Class
Anthracenedione (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Store at room temperature; protect from light; diluted solution stable 48h at room temperature
Dosing
Used for lymphoma (rescue), transitional cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carci
Preferred over doxorubicin in cats (much less cardiotoxicity)
Safety
CBC before each cycle (ANC ≥3000/µL, platelets ≥125,000/µL to proceed)Cardiac function (echocardiogram with cumulative doses)Hepatic enzymes
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Mitoxantrone?
Mitoxantrone is a anthracenedione (chemotherapy) used in pets. Intercalates into DNA and inhibits topoisomerase II, causing DNA strand breaks. Also generates free radicals causing oxidative damage. Cell-cycle non-specific but most active in S-phase.
›What is Mitoxantrone used for in pets?
Mitoxantrone is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for lymphoma (rescue), transitional cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carci; Preferred over doxorubicin in cats (much less cardiotoxicity).
›What is the Mitoxantrone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Mitoxantrone is typically dosed as follows — Used for lymphoma (rescue), transitional cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carci: 5–6 mg/m² PO q3 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Mitoxantrone dose for cats?
For cats, Mitoxantrone is typically dosed as follows — Preferred over doxorubicin in cats (much less cardiotoxicity): 6–6.5 mg/m² IV q3 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Mitoxantrone need a prescription?
Yes. Mitoxantrone 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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