Adrim

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Adrim

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Doxorubicin Hydrochloride
Form Solution for intravenous injection, Lyophilized powder
Pharmacological class Antineoplastic, Cytotoxic Agent, Anthracycline Anti-tumor Antibiotic
Common use (General Purpose) Limiting the growth and spread of rapidly proliferating, abnormal cells
Origin Semi-synthetic (originally derived from Streptomyces peucetius bacteria)

What Type of Medicine is Adrim (Doxorubicin)?

Adrim is a prescription-only systemic medicine containing the active ingredient Doxorubicin Hydrochloride, and is classified as an antineoplastic (anti-cancer) and cytotoxic agent. This medicine is recognized clinically for its broad-spectrum efficacy. It belongs to the specialized Anthracycline anti-tumor antibiotic pharmacological class, characterized by its chemical structure and capacity to target rapidly multiplying cells. The active substance, Doxorubicin, is a semi-synthetic derivative, placing it among medicines originally isolated from bacteria, which is then chemically modified.

As a cytotoxic agent, its core general purpose is to exert a destructive effect on these abnormal cell populations, providing a tool in the systemic management of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Doxorubicin has an established role in managing various tumors as an anthracycline class medication, serving as an agent to generally suppress the activity and spread of abnormal, fast-dividing cells.


Composition, Preparation, and General Utility

Adrim is prepared as a solution for injection or a lyophilized powder in a vial, designed for mandatory administration via intravenous infusion. It is a single-agent product where Doxorubicin Hydrochloride is the sole pharmacologically active component, dissolved in an aqueous base for delivery. The necessity of the intravenous route ensures that the medicine is distributed systemically throughout the body to reach the necessary sites of intervention. The general utility of Adrim lies in its capacity, clinically recognized in oncology, to interfere with the life cycle of fast-growing cells.


Differentiating Standard and Liposomal Doxorubicin Forms

There are key structural differences between the conventional Doxorubicin solution and the specialized Liposomal Doxorubicin formulation. The liposomal form encapsulates the active ingredient within microscopic fatty spheres. This encapsulation changes how the medicine is carried and released within the body compared to the conventional aqueous solution. This structural difference influences the overall delivery and distribution profile of the active substance, offering an alternative approach for administering this medication, especially in adult patients.

What side effects are possible with Adrim?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Adrim (Doxorubicin Hydrochloride) is characterized by effects on rapidly dividing cells, with adverse reactions officially classified by frequency and system-organ class in regulatory documents.

Very Common adverse reactions, occurring in a significant proportion of patients, include Myelosuppression (a serious, dose-limiting toxicity affecting blood cell production), Alopecia (reversible hair loss), Nausea and Vomiting, and Mucositis/Stomatitis. The transient red coloration of the urine (Chromaturia) is also a Very Common expected effect.

Serious adverse reactions documented in official labeling focus critically on Cardiotoxicity, which can lead to severe, irreversible Congestive Heart Failure linked to the cumulative dose a patient receives over time. Severe Myelosuppression increases the risk of life-threatening infections, and Extravasation at the injection site risks local tissue necrosis.

Other adverse reactions classified as Common include various Cardiac disorders (Arrhythmias, ECG changes) and gastrointestinal issues (Anorexia, Diarrhea).

Safety Considerations and Restrictions

Specific safety considerations apply to certain groups. Both pediatric patients and older adults have an increased risk of developing delayed cardiotoxicity, requiring continuous cardiac function monitoring. Patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment generally require dose adjustment due to reduced drug clearance. Official labeling lists constraints, including that the therapy is generally contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment or those who have reached the maximal cumulative lifetime dose of anthracyclines.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose of Adrim (Doxorubicin Hydrochloride) is officially classified as a severe and potentially fatal event, necessitating immediate and intensive medical intervention. The official regulatory profile is defined by two primary life-threatening consequences of overexposure: profound toxicity to the cardiovascular system and severe suppression of the bone marrow.

Documented manifestations of overdose include severe myelosuppression, characterized by a critical drop in white blood cells and platelets, which can rapidly escalate to conditions such as septic shock or hemorrhage. Additionally, acute cardiac toxicity and severe inflammation of the mucous membranes (stomatitis and mucositis) are cited presentations.

The most serious documented outcomes involve the cardiovascular system, where overexposure may result in irreversible myocardial damage and the development of potentially fatal congestive heart failure, which can be delayed for months or years. Pediatric patients and individuals with pre-existing cardiac conditions are noted to have an increased risk for these severe cardiac events.

Because no specific antidote is known, regulatory authorities mandate that any suspected overdose requires immediately seeking medical attention. Management relies entirely on intensive symptomatic and supportive care within a hospital setting. This protocol requires continuous cardiac monitoring, prolonged observation, and close monitoring of hematologic status, including the use of blood product transfusions if necessary.

Therapeutic Uses of Adrim

Adrim (doxorubicin hydrochloride) is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes within the therapeutic domain of oncology. It is applied in situations involving certain distressing symptoms across a wide spectrum of malignant diseases. The active ingredient is considered relevant for the management of various carcinomas, sarcomas, and lymphomas. This therapy may be part of symptomatic management in situations where patients experience systemic or localized discomfort linked to organ-specific functional stress.

This is often used during phases when symptoms become more noticeable, as it may assist with managing symptom clusters that become intense or disruptive. It contributes to easing the overall symptom load during periods of heightened symptoms and supports patients during episodes of heightened discomfort.

Quick Fact: Relevant for Easing Symptom Clusters

As a patient-oriented benefit, this treatment assists with maintaining functional stability when symptoms are more noticeable. It helps patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations, and as the treatment provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities, “it may assist with supporting general well-being during symptomatic phases.” The management is relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Adrim? (Doxorubicin HCl) — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility profile for Adrim is strictly defined by regulatory authorities to manage significant risks, primarily cardiotoxicity and bone marrow suppression. The medicine is contraindicated and must not be used in several specific patient populations.


Official Eligibility Constraints

Contraindicated Population/Condition Eligibility Status & Rationale
Severe Myocardial Function Contraindicated in cases of severe myocardial insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction, or uncontrolled arrhythmias, due to the risk of fatal cardiotoxicity.
Hematologic Status Contraindicated in patients with marked, persistent myelosuppression (severe bone marrow depression).
Hepatic Impairment Contraindicated for individuals with severe hepatic impairment, as defined in labeling.
Cumulative Dose Contraindicated in patients who have received the maximum recommended cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin or other similar anthracyclines.
Hypersensitivity Contraindicated for patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components.
Pregnancy/Lactation Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Restricted and Special Consideration Populations

Use is not established in pediatric patients, requiring special consideration for use in this age group. Caution is advised for patients with mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment or renal impairment, where dosing may need adjustment. Cardiac function must be assessed prior to treatment.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official Regulatory Interaction Profile

Adrim (Doxorubicin) has documented interactions that primarily fall into three regulatory classifications: pharmacokinetic modification, pharmacodynamic reinforcement, and administration constraints. All interactions and restrictions are stated in government prescribing information.

Interaction Type Interacting Substance/Class Official Outcome/Restriction
Contraindicated Combinations Trastuzumab; Heparin; Fluorouracil Increased risk of cardiac dysfunction (Trastuzumab); Chemical incompatibility/precipitation (Heparin, Fluorouracil).
Pharmacokinetic Inhibitors/Inducers of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, P-gp Increase or decrease in Doxorubicin plasma concentrations and exposure.
Pharmacodynamic Other Cardiotoxic Agents (e.g., Cyclophosphamide); Radiotherapy Increased risk of severe cardiotoxicity (lower cumulative doses); Increased risk of myelosuppression.

Administration and Population Notes

The co-administration of inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2D6, and P-glycoprotein is officially documented to increase Doxorubicin exposure, often requiring avoidance. Specific sequencing rules exist: Doxorubicin must be administered prior to Paclitaxel if co-administered, and the IV line must be flushed between Doxorubicin and Fluorouracil administration. Patients with prior mediastinal irradiation or severe hepatic impairment are identified as populations where interaction risks or toxicity may be heightened, leading to specific regulatory constraints.

Mechanism of Action

Adrim functions primarily as a selective competitive antagonist at the 5-HT2 receptor family, demonstrating high affinity for the 5-HT2 A and 5-HT2 C subtypes within the central nervous system ( CNS). By binding to these sites, Adrim interrupts the endogenous signaling of serotonin ( 5-HT).

This antagonistic action modulates the downstream G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) cascade. This process typically involves diminishing the 5-HT-mediated activation of phospholipase C ( PLC) and the subsequent reduction in the intracellular release of inositol triphosphate ( IP3) and calcium ions ( Ca^2+).

Additionally, Adrim exhibits affinity for D2 receptors, further contributing to the overall modulation of serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission balance in cortical and subcortical pathways. The systemic consequence of this combined receptor blockade is a modification of neuronal firing patterns and signal transmission in brain regions regulating sensory processing and the sleep-wake cycle.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Adrim (Doxorubicin) is Used: Official Administration Guidelines

Adrim is a medicine administered according to strict, standardized protocols defined by health authorities, focusing on the route, calculated dose, and precise schedule.


Administration Principles

Feature Official Instruction Summary
Route of Administration The primary method for systemic therapy is Intravenous (IV) Injection or Infusion. Other routes, such as intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, are strictly prohibited.
Standard Dosing Schedule Dosing is calculated using the patient's body surface area. The standard dose range for single-agent use is typically 60 mg/m^2 to 75 mg/m^2. The use of the drug is regulated by a maximum cumulative lifetime dose of 550 mg/m^2.
Frequency Pattern Adrim is generally administered in a cyclic pattern, most commonly once every 21 days (three weeks). Alternative weekly schedules may also be used in certain settings.

Procedural and Contextual Instructions

For proper administration, the conventional lyophilized powder must be reconstituted and diluted in a specific solution, such as 0.9% Sodium Chloride or 5% Dextrose Injection. This preparation must be protected from light from the point of dilution until the infusion is complete.

The intravenous injection must be delivered over a specific timeframe, typically 3 to 10 minutes, via a secure, free-flowing line. Standard guidelines dictate that the dosage must be adjusted based on the patient's liver function: dose reductions are required if the serum total bilirubin concentration exceeds specific limits. Furthermore, use of the lower dose range or longer intervals should be considered for older adults or heavily pretreated patients.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Adrim

Evidence Base for Soft Tissue Sarcomas (Conventional Formulation)

The clinical evidence base for Adrim (conventional doxorubicin) in advanced soft tissue sarcomas has been extensively studied, drawing primarily from multiple high-quality Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and subsequent systematic reviews. Researchers extensively was studied for this medicine in patients whose condition had advanced or spread to other parts of the body. These studies mainly focused on measuring overall time-related outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, such as Overall Survival (OS) and Progression-Free Survival (PFS), which describe the duration of time patients were monitored. The findings describe patterns observed in the studies that positioned doxorubicin monotherapy as a reference comparator against which many newer therapies are measured. Research has specifically examined how disease markers, such as Tumor Response rates, evolved in the observed populations during the study period. What remains uncertain is that evidence from trials comparing it directly to an inactive control is less represented in recent literature. Furthermore, subgroup findings are uncertain or limited for some of the rarer types of soft tissue sarcoma, meaning the research provides limited insight into specific outcomes for these patient groups.


Evidence Base for Carcinomas and Hematological Malignities

The evidence for Adrim's role in cancers like certain types of breast cancer, acute leukemia, and lymphomas was studied for as a component of specific, structured, multi-drug regimens. Research in these areas relies on large-scale Randomized Controlled Trials and comprehensive Meta-analyses that consolidate findings across many different study centers. Research describes patterns related to measured outcomes like Overall Survival (OS) and Disease-Free Survival (DFS) when Adrim is used as a component of these complex regimens. What remains uncertain is the independent effect of Adrim when used alone, as most of the high-level evidence focuses on the medicine's contribution within a combination setting. Given the extended follow-up in some studies, the long-term observational data can only suggest associations, not confirm direct cause-and-effect relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Adrim (FAQ)


Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Adrim?

A: Adrim is a medicine administered on a strict, pre-determined schedule. According to official documents, if an appointment for a dose is missed, individuals are advised to contact their medical care team immediately. Only the healthcare provider managing the therapy can determine any necessary adjustment to the prescribed schedule.


Q: Is it normal to feel tired when starting Adrim?

A: Yes, official safety information indicates that fatigue is a frequently reported adverse reaction. Additionally, Adrim can cause anemia (a low red blood cell count), which is often associated with feelings of unusual weakness or tiredness. If tiredness becomes severe or concerning, patients may wish to discuss this with their care team.


Q: Can men and women both use Adrim?

A: Yes, Adrim is prescribed to both adult men and women for its approved uses. However, official guidelines mandate that it is contraindicated (must not be used) during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Furthermore, both men and women of reproductive potential are advised in regulatory documents to use effective contraception during and for a specified time after treatment.


Q: Can I drive or operate machinery while taking Adrim?

A: While the impact of Adrim on the ability to drive is generally described as negligible, official regulatory documents note that side effects such as dizziness and somnolence (drowsiness) have been reported. Patients who experience these effects may be advised to avoid driving or operating machinery until the effects of the medicine are known.


Q: What happens if Adrim is taken by someone who does not need it?

A: Official documents define Adrim as a potent cytotoxic agent used only under strict medical supervision for specific conditions. Taking this medicine without a medical need is not addressed, but its known severe toxicities, such as life-threatening heart damage (cardiotoxicity) and bone marrow suppression (myelosuppression), indicate the presence of significant risks when the drug is used outside of a regulated and monitored treatment plan.


Q: What age group is Adrim typically prescribed for?

A: Adrim is indicated in official documents for the treatment of various malignancies in both adult and pediatric patients. Its use in children, however, is subject to special considerations and continuous cardiac monitoring due to an increased risk of delayed heart problems.


Q: Do I need special monitoring or blood tests while on Adrim?

A: Yes, regulatory documents emphasize the need for regular monitoring. This includes routine assessments of your heart function, specifically the left ventricular cardiac function (e.g., LVEF) before and throughout treatment. Additionally, frequent blood counts are required before each treatment cycle to monitor for myelosuppression (effects on blood cell production).


Q: Can Adrim be used during pregnancy, according to official guidelines?

A: No, official regulatory documents state that Adrim is contraindicated during pregnancy because of the risk of causing harm to the fetus. If you are a woman of childbearing potential, official information recommends using effective contraception throughout the duration of the therapy.


Q: What are the signs that Adrim is starting to work?

A: Official sources and clinical studies typically measure the effectiveness of Adrim using clinical outcomes such as Overall Survival (OS) and Progression-Free Survival (PFS). These are high-level medical measures, and patient-perceptible signs of efficacy are not explicitly listed in official drug information. Changes in the disease state are usually determined by medical tests and assessments.


Q: Can Adrim cause changes in mood or personality?

A: The mechanism of action involves the central nervous system ( CNS) and modulation of signal transmission. Specific changes to mood or personality are not listed in the common side effects, and are not described in official labeling. Patients with concerns may wish to discuss this aspect with a healthcare provider.


Q: Does Adrim affect fertility?

A: Yes, official regulatory warnings advise both male and female patients of the potential for loss of fertility. In women, this may sometimes lead to temporary or premature menopause. In men, it may cause changes in sperm count or quality that may be permanent, according to medical monographs.


Q: What should I know about stopping Adrim?

A: Official guidelines indicate that treatment with Adrim must not be stopped without consulting a healthcare provider. The drug must be discontinued by a professional if the patient develops signs or symptoms of heart muscle damage (cardiomyopathy) or if the total cumulative dose or toxicity levels exceed regulatory-defined safety limits.


Q: Is Adrim safe for older adults?

A: Official documents have examined how Adrim is cleared in elderly subjects (aged ge 65 years). While no dosage adjustment is recommended solely based on age for the conventional formulation, older adults are specifically identified as a population with an increased risk of developing delayed heart toxicity after treatment.


Q: How often are patients supposed to be reviewed while taking Adrim?

A: The required frequency of medical review is based on monitoring guidelines. Official documents require regular blood counts before each treatment cycle is initiated. Additionally, heart assessment frequency must be increased when the patient reaches a high cumulative dose (e.g., over 300 mg/ m^2) to monitor for cardiotoxicity.


Q: Why is Adrim sometimes prescribed 'off-label' (clarification on the concept)?

A: A medicine is prescribed 'off-label' when a healthcare professional uses an FDA-approved drug to treat a condition that is not officially listed on the regulatory label. Official government sources mention that Adrim has both FDA-approved uses and a number of recognized off-label indications for various malignancies, though this FAQ cannot discuss specific off-label uses.


Q: Is it common for people to stop taking Adrim because of side effects?

A: Official regulatory warnings require that the drug be immediately discontinued by a healthcare professional if a patient develops certain adverse reactions, such as severe heart damage or severe, persistent myelosuppression. This requirement indicates that serious side effects are a critical regulatory constraint on the continuation of the therapy.

How should Adrim be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Protection Requirements

Storage Scope Requirement Details
Temperature Vials must be stored refrigerated at 2 C to 8 C (36 F to 46 F).
Light Protection The product must be protected from light and kept in the outer carton until use.
Handling Note Refrigerated solution may form a gel, which requires placing the product at room temperature (15 C to 30 C) for 2 to 4 hours to revert to a mobile solution.
Child Safety The medicine must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Official Disposal Instructions

Adrim (Doxorubicin Hydrochloride) is classified as a cytotoxic drug, requiring applicable special handling and disposal procedures. Unused product or any remaining portion in the vial must be discarded in accordance with local regulatory requirements. Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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