azatend injection - Azacitidine (100mg) medicine

Azadine Injection (Azacitidine 100 mg): Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 Zydus Cadila 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 16, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk ⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy. It can cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. If pregnancy occurs, consult the doctor immediately. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 16, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) or chills
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is azatend injection used for?

Azacitidine injection is a chemotherapy medicine used to treat myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia. It works by helping the bone marrow produce normal blood cells and slowing the growth of abnormal cells. It is given intravenously by a healthcare professional.

  • Generic Name: Azacitidine
  • Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 azatend injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक प्रिस्क्रिप्शन इंजेक्शन है जिसका उपयोग माइलोडिसप्लास्टिक सिंड्रोम और तीव्र माइलॉयड ल्यूकेमिया जैसे रक्त कैंसर के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह असामान्य रक्त कोशिकाओं की वृद्धि को धीमा करती है और अस्थि मज्जा को सामान्य रक्त कोशिकाएं बनाने में मदद करती है। यह दवा डॉक्टर द्वारा नस के माध्यम से दी जाती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, कब्ज, थकान, बुखार और इंजेक्शन स्थल पर प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में रक्त कोशिकाओं की कमी, संक्रमण, रक्तस्राव, यकृत और गुर्दे की समस्याएं शामिल हो सकती हैं। किसी भी असामान्य लक्षण की तुरंत डॉक्टर को सूचना दें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य कैंसर विशेषज्ञ की देखरेख में दी जानी चाहिए। नियमित रक्त परीक्षण आवश्यक हैं। संक्रमण से बचने के लिए सावधानी बरतें। गर्भवती महिलाओं को यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए। शराब का सेवन न करें। डॉक्टर से परामर्श के बिना कोई अन्य दवा न लें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 azatend injection Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)","description":"Used to treat adults with myelodysplastic syndromes, including refractory anemia with excess blasts, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, and other subtypes.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)","description":"Used for the treatment of adults with acute myeloid leukemia, particularly in older patients or those who cannot tolerate intensive chemotherapy.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML)","description":"Sometimes used off-label for chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, a condition that overlaps with MDS.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Relapsed or refractory AML","description":"May be used off-label in some patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Myelodysplastic syndromes

Also treats: Acute myeloid leukemia, Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Azacitidine
Brand NameAzadine Injection
ManufacturerZydus Cadila
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI NEOPLASTICS
Action ClassAntimetabolites
Route of AdministrationIntravenous (IV) infusion. This medicine is administered by a healthcare professional
StorageStore unopened vials at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Store in original carton to protect from light. After reconstitution, the solution should be stored as directed by the pharmacy and used within the specified time.
Shelf LifeRefer to the product packaging for the expiration date. Do not use after the expiry date.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Monitor complete blood counts regularly to detect myelosuppression early.
2
Administer antiemetics before infusion to reduce nausea and vomiting.
3
Ensure adequate hydration to prevent tumor lysis syndrome.
4
Avoid live vaccines during treatment.
5
Use effective contraception in women of childbearing age.
6
Monitor liver and kidney function tests periodically.
7
Educate patients about signs of infection and bleeding.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Fatigue and weakness
This medicine is used for conditions that cause anemia and fatigue.
Likely Use
✅
Frequent infections
This medicine is used for blood disorders that impair immunity.
Likely Use
✅
Easy bruising or bleeding
This medicine is used for conditions with low platelets.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer; fever may indicate infection.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionAzacitidine is administered intravenously, so absorption is complete and rapid. The bioavailability is considered 100% for the intravenous route.
DistributionFollowing intravenous administration, azacitidine distributes into tissues, but specific volume of distribution data are not well established from available information.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismAzacitidine undergoes metabolism primarily by hydrolysis and deamination, not by cytochrome P450 enzymes. It is rapidly metabolized in the liver and other tissues.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of azacitidine after intravenous administration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
ExcretionAzacitidine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. Renal excretion accounts for a significant portion of elimination.
Bioavailability100% for intravenous administration.
Onset of ActionThe onset of therapeutic effect is not immediate; it may take several weeks to months of treatment to observe clinical improvement.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations occur at the end of intravenous infusion.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is not well defined, but effects on blood counts may persist beyond the dosing period.

How It Works

Azacitidine is a pyrimidine nucleoside analog that exerts its effects by incorporating into DNA and RNA. In DNA, it inhibits DNA methyltransferase, leading to hypomethylation of DNA and reactivation of silenced genes, including tumor suppressor genes. In RNA, it interferes with protein synthesis and can induce cellular differentiation and apoptosis of abnormal hematopoietic cells. This dual mechanism helps restore normal hematopoiesis and slows the proliferation of malignant cells.

Mechanism Steps

1
Cellular uptake and phosphorylation: Azacitidine enters cells via nucleoside transporters and is phosphorylated to its active triphosphate form.
2
Incorporation into DNA and RNA: The active form incorporates into DNA and RNA, with DNA incorporation leading to hypomethylation and RNA incorporation affecting protein synthesis.
3
DNA hypomethylation and gene reactivation: Inhibition of DNA methyltransferase leads to hypomethylation of promoter regions, reactivating silenced genes such as tumor suppressors.
4
Induction of differentiation and apoptosis: The reactivation of genes and interference with RNA function leads to differentiation of abnormal cells and programmed cell death.
5
Restoration of normal hematopoiesis: Over time, this leads to improved blood cell production and reduced blast cells in the bone marrow.

💡 How to Take azatend injection

Strength: Azacitidine 100 mg powder for injection (intravenous use).

1This medicine is given by a healthcare professional as an intravenous infusion.
2The infusion typically takes about 10 to 40 minutes.
3Premedication with anti-nausea drugs may be given before the infusion.
4Drink plenty of fluids before and after the infusion unless told otherwise.
5Report any side effects to the healthcare team during the infusion.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is determined by the treating oncologist based on the specific condition being treated, the patient's blood counts, and overall health. For myelodysplastic syndromes, a common regimen is 75 mg/m² given intravenously once daily for 7 days every 4 weeks. For acute myeloid leukemia, the dose may be 75 mg/m² daily for 7 days every 4 weeks. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Dose selection should be cautious, and monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is recommended. No specific dose adjustment is established solely based on age.
Renal ImpairmentPatients with severe renal impairment may require dose adjustment. Monitor kidney function closely. Consult the prescribing oncologist for specific dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentPatients with severe hepatic impairment may require dose adjustment. Monitor liver function closely. Consult the prescribing oncologist for specific dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is not established from available information. Dosing is individualized by the treating oncologist.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
No specific restriction
This medicine is given intravenously; food does not affect it.
Alcohol
Avoid
May worsen liver toxicity and increase bleeding risk.
Grapefruit
No known interaction
Azacitidine is not metabolized by CYP3A4.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 If you miss an appointment for your infusion
→ Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule.
💡 Do not attempt to self-administer. The dosing schedule may need adjustment.
📌 If you forget to take pre-medication
→ Inform your nurse or doctor before the infusion.
💡 They may adjust the pre-medication to manage side effects.

⚠️ Side Effects of azatend injection

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (10-30%))
Take anti-nausea medication as prescribed. Eat small, frequent meals. Consult doctor if persistent.
Vomiting (Common (10-30%))
Stay hydrated. Use prescribed antiemetics. Contact doctor if unable to keep fluids down.
Diarrhea (Common (10-30%))
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid high-fiber foods. Consult doctor if severe.
Constipation (Common (10-30%))
Increase fluid and fiber intake. Use stool softeners if recommended by doctor.
Fatigue (Common (10-30%))
Get adequate rest. Pace activities. Report worsening fatigue to doctor.
Fever (Common (10-30%))
Monitor temperature. Report fever above 38°C (100.4°F) to doctor immediately.
Injection site reactions (Common (10-30%))
Apply cold compress. Report severe pain or redness to healthcare provider.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe myelosuppression (low blood counts) (Common (10-30%))
Regular blood tests are required. Report signs of infection, bleeding, or severe fatigue immediately.
Severe infection (sepsis) (Uncommon (1-10%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you have fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, or confusion.
Bleeding (Uncommon (1-10%))
Report unusual bruising, nosebleeds, or blood in urine/stool to doctor immediately.
Liver toxicity (Rare (<1%))
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to doctor.
Renal toxicity (Rare (<1%))
Report decreased urine output or swelling to doctor.
Tumor lysis syndrome (Rare (<1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, or decreased urine output.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<1%))
Seek emergency help if you have difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/throat, or severe rash.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Cardiac arrhythmias
Report palpitations, chest pain, or shortness of breath to doctor immediately.
Interstitial lung disease
Report new or worsening cough or shortness of breath to doctor.
Pancreatitis
Seek immediate care for severe abdominal pain radiating to back.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Live vaccines Major
Myelosuppressive agents Major
NSAIDs Moderate
Anticoagulants Moderate
Alcohol Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Live vaccines
  • Myelosuppressive agents (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, heparin)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided during treatment with this medicine because it can increase the risk of liver problems and bleeding, and may worsen side effects such as nausea and fatigue.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to azacitidine or any component of the formulation","Pregnancy","Breastfeeding","Severe liver disease","Severe kidney disease"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine can cause severe myelosuppression; monitor blood counts regularly.","May cause fetal harm; use effective contraception.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","May cause liver and kidney toxicity; monitor function tests.","May cause tumor lysis syndrome; monitor electrolytes and uric acid.","May cause severe allergic reactions; seek immediate help if symptoms occur.","Patients with pre-existing liver or kidney disease may require dose adjustments."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether azacitidine passes into breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment and for at least 1 week after the last dose.

💊 Overdose Management

There is no specific antidote for overdose. In case of overdose, discontinue the medicine and provide supportive care. Monitor blood counts, liver and kidney function closely. Contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately.

⏰ Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Do not double the dose to catch up. The dosing schedule should be adjusted by the treating oncologist.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must be given under the supervision of a qualified oncologist. Regular blood tests are required to monitor blood counts, liver function, and kidney function. Patients should avoid close contact with people who have infections and should practice good hand hygiene. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after the last dose. Men should also use contraception. This medicine may cause fatigue or dizziness; patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how it affects them. Do not receive any live vaccines without consulting the doctor. Inform your doctor about all other medicines, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects such as myelosuppression, infections, and fatigue. Close monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is recommended. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on tolerability.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine can cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose. Men should also use contraception. If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before starting treatment.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may increase the risk of bleeding and infection after surgery. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about your treatment. Your doctor may recommend delaying surgery or adjusting the treatment schedule.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist about your treatment with this medicine. Due to increased risk of bleeding and infection, dental procedures may need to be postponed or performed with precautions. Consult your doctor before any dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
🥗
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
😴
Get adequate rest and pace your activities.
💧
Practice good hand hygiene to prevent infections.
🧘
Avoid crowds and people with known infections.
🌞
Engage in light exercise as tolerated.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Patients should avoid strenuous exercise during treatment due to fatigue and increased risk of bleeding. Light activities like walking are encouraged if tolerated. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat small, frequent meals to manage nausea.
Include protein-rich foods to support blood cell production.
Avoid raw or undercooked foods to prevent infections.
Stay hydrated with water and clear fluids.
Limit alcohol consumption.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause fatigue, dizziness, and increased risk of infection, which can affect your ability to work or drive. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Discuss work accommodations with your employer if needed.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Treatment duration is determined by your oncologist based on your response and side effects. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately; they may adjust or stop the treatment.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to persistent low blood counts, increased risk of infections, and bleeding. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is essential. Some patients may develop resistance to the medicine over time. Long-term effects on fertility are not fully known. Patients should be monitored for secondary cancers.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Supportive care

Blood transfusions, antibiotics, and growth factors can help manage symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established
Stem cell transplant

For eligible patients, stem cell transplant may be curative.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with this medicine due to the risk of infection. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but their effectiveness may be reduced. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original carton to protect from light

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children

❌ DON'T

Do not use after expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medications. Always carry a medical alert card stating your condition and treatment.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 68-year-old man with myelodysplastic syndrome
He was diagnosed with MDS and started on azacitidine injections. After three cycles, his blood counts improved, and he needed fewer blood transfusions. He experienced mild nausea, which was managed with anti-nausea medication. He emphasized the importance of regular blood tests and staying hydrated.
💡 Lesson: Consistent treatment and monitoring can lead to improved blood counts and reduced transfusion needs.
👤 A 72-year-old woman with acute myeloid leukemia
She received azacitidine as part of her AML treatment. She developed low blood counts and required antibiotics for an infection. With close monitoring and supportive care, she completed her cycles. She advises patients to report any fever or bleeding immediately.
💡 Lesson: Prompt reporting of side effects and adherence to monitoring schedules are crucial for safe treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: It may take several weeks to months of treatment to see improvement in blood counts. Your doctor will monitor your progress with regular blood tests.

Q: Can I take this medicine at home?

A: No, this medicine must be given by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital setting.

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

A: Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Do not double the dose.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: No, this medicine can harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for azatend injection

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Azacitidine is a cure for all blood cancers.
    Fact: Azacitidine is used for specific types of blood disorders and is not a cure for all cancers. It helps control the disease and improve blood counts.
  • Myth: Azacitidine can be taken at home.
    Fact: Azacitidine must be given by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital setting.
  • Myth: Azacitidine has no side effects.
    Fact: Azacitidine can cause significant side effects, including low blood counts, infections, and bleeding.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Azacitidine

Brand Alternatives

  • Azadine

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Azacitidine","class":"Hypomethylating agent","route":"Intravenous","primary_use":"MDS, AML"},{"medicine":"Decitabine","class":"Hypomethylating agent","route":"Intravenous","primary_use":"MDS, AML"}]

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