Name of the Procedure:

Injection, dexrazoxane hydrochloride, per 250 mg
Common Name(s): Dexrazoxane Injection
Technical/Medical Term: Intravenous Injection of Dexrazoxane Hydrochloride

Summary

Dexrazoxane injection is a medical procedure where a medication called dexrazoxane hydrochloride is administered through an IV injection. This drug is used as a protective agent to reduce the risk of heart damage in patients undergoing certain types of chemotherapy.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Cardioprotection during chemotherapy, especially with medications like doxorubicin that are known to cause heart damage.

  Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• To minimize or prevent cardiac toxicity in patients receiving high doses of anthracycline chemotherapy drugs like doxorubicin.

Indications

Specific Symptoms/Conditions:

• Patients undergoing anthracycline chemotherapy who are at increased risk of cardiac complications.

Patient Criteria:

• Typically prescribed for cancer patients receiving high cumulative doses of anthracyclines.

  Preparation

  Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No special fasting is required, but follow any specific guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary; inform your healthcare provider about all current medications.

Required Assessments:

• Baseline cardiac function tests (e.g., echocardiogram).
• Blood tests to monitor kidney and liver function.

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. The patient will be seated or lying down.
2. An IV line will be placed into a vein, typically in the arm.
3. Dexrazoxane hydrochloride will be administered slowly through the IV line.
4. The healthcare provider will monitor the patient for any immediate reactions.

Tools/Equipment:

• IV setup, including a catheter and infusion pump.

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not typically required.

Duration

The injection process usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is typically performed in a hospital oncology unit or an outpatient chemotherapy clinic.

Personnel

• Oncologist or oncology nurse
• Possibly a pharmacist for preparation of the medication

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reactions
• Nausea or vomiting
• Changes in blood counts

Possible Complications:

• Monitor for signs of allergic reactions or other adverse effects, and manage them promptly with medications as necessary.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Significant reduction in the risk of heart damage due to chemotherapy.

Timeline for Benefits:

• Protective effects are immediate, offering cardiac protection concurrent with chemotherapy treatment.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Patients can resume normal activities almost immediately after the procedure.

Expected Recovery Time:

• No significant recovery time needed; minimal to no side effects.

Restrictions or Follow-Up:

• Follow-up appointments to monitor cardiac function and overall health during cancer treatment.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Dose adjustment or alternative chemotherapy regimens that are less cardiotoxic.
• Use of other cardioprotective drugs.

Pros and Cons:

• Dexrazoxane is specifically effective for preventing heart damage, which alternative chemotherapy adjustments might not fully address.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patients might feel a mild prick when the IV is inserted and mild discomfort during the injection.

After the Procedure:

• Some may experience minor side effects like nausea, but these are generally manageable.
• Pain management or anti-nausea medications may be provided for comfort.