Kosmegen

Cosmegen: Effective antitumor antibiotic from the Netherlands

Cosmegen, also known by its international name Dactinomycin, is a powerful antitumor antibiotic produced by Merck Sharp and Dome in the Netherlands. This drug is used in the treatment of various types of cancer and is a lyophilized powder for the preparation of an injection solution.

Cosmegen is actively used in complex therapy of certain types of tumors. It is effective in the treatment of Wilms tumor (in combination with radiation therapy), rhabdomyosarcoma (in combination with vincristine and cyclophosphamide), metastatic choriocarcinoma (together with methotrexate under the control of human chorionic gonadotropin levels), non-metastatic choriocarcinoma (together with methotrexate and surgical treatment), metastatic carcinoma testicular, Ewing's sarcoma, pampiniform sarcoma, uterine and ovarian cancer, as well as sarcomas and melanoma.

Although Cosmegen is an effective antitumor drug, its use has some contraindications and side effects. Contraindications include hypersensitivity to the drug, bone marrow suppression, chickenpox, herpes zoster, liver dysfunction and children under 12 months of age. There are also restrictions for use in patients with a history of gout or kidney stones, previous cytotoxic or radiation therapy, as well as in pregnant and lactating women and in children over 12 months.

Side effects that may occur when using Cosmegen include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, esophagitis, erosive and ulcerative lesions of the gastrointestinal tract, proctitis, ulcerative stomatitis, pharyngitis, cheilitis, dysphagia, abdominal pain, hepatotoxicity, hepatomegaly, hepatitis, change liver function tests, anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, agranulocytosis, reticulopenia, bleeding or hemorrhage, hyperuricemia, nephropathy, alopecia, acne, recurrence of erythema or increased pigmentation of previously irradiated skin areas, skin rash, dry skin, impaired taste, bone marrow suppression, neuropathy, angioedema, allergic reactions and others.

Before using Cosmegen, a thorough evaluation of the patient should be performed, including a clinical examination, blood tests, and assessment of liver and kidney function. Treatment should be carried out under the supervision of a qualified physician specializing in oncology.

Cosmegen is a powerful antitumor antibiotic that may be effective in treating certain types of cancer. However, its use should only be under medical supervision, and patients should be aware of possible contraindications and side effects. It is important to discuss all questions and concerns with your oncologist or other healthcare professional to make an informed decision about the best treatment.