Istodax (Romidepsin)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Istodax Used For?
Istodax is an anti-cancer medication that belongs to a group of medicines called histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. It’s specifically designed to treat certain types of blood cancers.
Primary Uses
Istodax is used to treat peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) in patients who have received at least one previous treatment for this condition. PTCL is a disease where T-cells (a type of white blood cell from your immune system) grow abnormally.
How It Works
Istodax works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. This medicine has also been shown to kill cancer cells directly.
How to Take Istodax
Istodax is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion directly into your vein by your doctor or nurse in a medical setting. You cannot take this medication at home.
Dosage Instructions
Your doctor will choose the correct dose based on your general condition, height, and weight. The usual dose is 14 mg per square meter of body surface area. Istodax is given over a 4-hour period on Days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle. These cycles may be repeated for as long as you continue to receive benefit from the treatment.
What If You Miss a Dose?
It’s very important to keep all appointments to receive Istodax. If you miss an appointment, ask your doctor when to schedule your next dose.
Important: Your doctor may give you another medicine to help prevent nausea and vomiting during treatment.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
- stomach pain, indigestion, loss of appetite
- weight loss, changes in taste
- easy bleeding or bruising
- weakness, tiredness, dizziness
- shortness of breath or pale color
- swelling of hands, ankles or feet
- muscle pain or spasms
- signs of dehydration (dry mouth, increased thirst, weakness)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- sudden signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, breathing problems)
- symptoms of infection (fever, chills, sore throat, cough)
- abnormal heart-beat, dizziness, or fainting
- sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing
- pain or swelling in legs (especially lower leg or calves)
- heavy bleeding without injury
- racing heart, extreme fatigue, headaches
Important Warnings
There are several important safety considerations before starting Istodax treatment. Your doctor will discuss these risks and monitor you carefully.
Who Should Not Take Istodax
Do not use Istodax if you are allergic to romidepsin or any of the ingredients. Signs of allergic reaction include shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue, rash, itching, or hives.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you have: heart problems or take heart rhythm medications (Istodax can cause abnormal heart rhythms), blood conditions affecting blood cell counts, history of frequent infections or hepatitis B/Epstein Barr virus, kidney problems, or problems with potassium or magnesium levels in your blood.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Istodax can harm your unborn baby and is not recommended during pregnancy. You’ll need a pregnancy test before starting treatment. Use reliable contraception during treatment and for at least 4 weeks after stopping. It’s unknown if Istodax passes into breast milk, so discuss with your doctor whether to stop breastfeeding.
Blood Cell Monitoring: This medicine can reduce blood cell counts, making you more susceptible to infections and bleeding. Regular blood tests are required.
Drug Interactions
Some medicines may interfere with Istodax and affect how it works. Always tell your doctor about all medications you’re taking.
- warfarin or other blood thinners
- medicines for heart problems such as arrhythmia
- antifungal medicines (such as ketoconazole)
- tuberculosis medicines (such as rifampin)
- estrogen-containing oral contraceptive pills
- St John’s Wort
Alcohol & Driving
Istodax may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Take precautions until you know how this medication affects you.
Alcohol
No specific alcohol warnings were provided in the source material. Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Istodax may cause tiredness or weakness. If you experience these symptoms, do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous.
Storage
Istodax is stored and prepared by healthcare professionals in a medical facility. It comes as a dual pack with one vial containing white to off-white powder and another vial containing clear solvent.
Overdose Information
Since Istodax is given under medical supervision, overdose is unlikely. However, if you experience any side effects after receiving Istodax, tell your doctor immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Each Istodax infusion takes 4 hours and is given on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle. Treatment cycles may be repeated as long as you continue to benefit from the medication.
Your doctor will perform regular heart function (ECG) tests and blood tests to monitor your blood cell levels, heart activity, and overall response to treatment.
Yes, Istodax can reduce your white blood cell count, making you more susceptible to infections. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop fever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection.
Drink plenty of fluids while taking Istodax. Discuss with your doctor how much water you should drink, as staying well-hydrated may help reduce the chances of dehydration.
Yes, always tell all doctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, and healthcare professionals that you are receiving Istodax. This is especially important if you’re having surgery.
It’s very important to keep all appointments. If you miss an appointment, contact your doctor immediately to schedule your next dose.
Yes, Istodax can cause abnormal heart rhythms. Your doctor will conduct heart function tests before and during treatment to monitor your heart activity, especially if you have a history of heart problems.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.