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)
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 before each cycle (ANC ≥3000/µL, platelets ≥125,000/µL to proceed)Cardiac function (echocardiogram with cumulative doses)Hepatic enzymes
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 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.
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