Dexrazoxane hydrochloride
[CAS# 149003-01-0]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Antineoplastic agents
• Name: Dexrazoxane hydrochloride
• Synonyms: (S)-4,4'-(1-Methyl-1,2-ethanediyl)bis-2,6-piperazinedione hydrochloride
• Molecular Formula: C₁₁H₁₆N₄O₄.HCl
• Molecular Weight: 304.73
• CAS Registry Number: 149003-01-0
• SMILES: C[C@@H](CN1CC(=O)NC(=O)C1)N2CC(=O)NC(=O)C2.Cl

Properties

• Solubility: 40 mM (DMSO)

Discovery and Applications

Dexrazoxane hydrochloride, a chelating agent and anthracycline cardioprotectant, was first synthesized in the late 20th century and has since become an important compound in oncology and pharmaceutical medicine. Its discovery was driven by the need to mitigate the cardiotoxic effects of anthracycline chemotherapy agents, such as doxorubicin, which are effective in treating various cancers but can cause significant damage to the heart muscle.

The primary application of Dexrazoxane hydrochloride is as a cardioprotective agent in cancer therapy. When used in conjunction with anthracycline drugs, it works by chelating iron, which is essential for the generation of free radicals. These free radicals are responsible for the oxidative stress that leads to cardiotoxicity. By reducing iron-mediated oxidative damage, Dexrazoxane hydrochloride helps to protect the heart from the adverse effects associated with anthracycline treatment, thereby improving patient safety and treatment outcomes.

In addition to its role in cancer therapy, Dexrazoxane hydrochloride is utilized in various clinical settings for its potential to manage and prevent drug-induced cardiac damage. Its use has been studied in both adults and pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy, demonstrating its efficacy in reducing the risk of long-term cardiac complications associated with aggressive cancer treatments.

Beyond its clinical applications, Dexrazoxane hydrochloride is also employed in research to explore its potential benefits in other therapeutic areas. Studies are ongoing to investigate its role in protecting against cardiotoxicity in different contexts and to enhance our understanding of its mechanisms of action.

Despite its significant benefits, the use of Dexrazoxane hydrochloride is subject to careful consideration and monitoring. As with any therapeutic agent, its potential side effects and interactions with other drugs must be managed appropriately. Ongoing research continues to evaluate its safety profile and to optimize its use in clinical practice.

References

2021. Clinically Translatable Prevention of Anthracycline Cardiotoxicity by Dexrazoxane Is Mediated by Topoisomerase II Beta. Circulation: Heart Failure, 14(11).
DOI: 10.1161/circheartfailure.120.008209

2022. Late health outcomes after dexrazoxane treatment: A report from the Children's Oncology Group. Cancer, 128(4).
DOI: 10.1002/cncr.33974

2023. In vitro to clinical translational pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modeling of doxorubicin and dexrazoxane interactions: Safety assessment and optimization. Scientific Reports, 13(2).
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29964-4