Arsenic trioxide is originated for induction of remission as well as consolidation in those recipients who are with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) and are refractory to, or have relapsed from, retinoid and anthracycline chemo, and whose acute promyelocytic leukemia is characterized by the existence of the t(15;17) translocation or PML/RAR-alpha gene expression.
Approval: In the year of 2000, Arsenic trioxide was approved for medical use in the United States. The mechanism of arsenic trioxide 10 mg in treating cancer is not entirely clear.
Dosage Form: Arsenic trioxide comes in the form of injection generically and under the brand name Trisenox. This medication is an injectable solution for the use of intravenously supplied as 10mg /10 ml of arsenic trioxide in single-use ampules.
Induction Therapy Schedule: Administer the arsenic trioxide injection intravenously at a dose of 0.15 mg per kg daily until the bone marrow remission. It is not recommended to exceed the 60 doses for induction.
Consolidation Therapy Schedule: Start with consolidation treatment three to six weeks following completion of induction therapy. Administer arsenic trioxide intravenously at a dose of 0.15 mg per kg daily for 25 doses over a period up to five weeks.
Side Effects: Side effects of arsenic trioxide are usually mild and not life threatening. The most commonly reported side effects due to arsenic include vomiting, swelling, diarrhea, shortness of breath, and headaches.
Cost: The arsenic trioxide price in India may vary depending on the wholesaler or pharmacy and of course the brand you choose. The cost of arsenic trioxide ranges from around Rs. 412 to Rs. 818 for a supply of a vial of 1 injection.