Amifostine 500mg Injection: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe dizziness or fainting during or after the infusion
- Very low blood pressure that does not improve with fluids
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Seizures or muscle twitching
- Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs
- Severe nausea and vomiting that does not stop
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is cytofos 500mg injection used for?
This medicine is an intravenous cytoprotective agent containing amifostine 500 mg. It is used in selected patients to reduce kidney damage from cisplatin chemotherapy and dry mouth from radiation therapy to the head and neck. It is given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting, usually 30 minutes before cancer treatment.
- Generic Name: Amifostine
- Manufacturer: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 cytofos 500mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एमिफोस्टीन 500 मिलीग्राम इंजेक्शन है, जिसे डॉक्टर की देखरेख में नस के माध्यम से दिया जाता है। इसका उपयोग कैंसर के इलाज में होने वाले कुछ गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है, जैसे सिस्प्लाटिन कीमोथेरेपी से होने वाली किडनी की क्षति और सिर-गर्दन की रेडिएशन थेरेपी से होने वाला मुँह सूखना। यह दवा कैंसर को ठीक नहीं करती, बल्कि सामान्य ऊतकों को बचाने में मदद करती है। यह दवा केवल अस्पताल या क्लिनिक में योग्य डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, चेहरे पर गर्मी लगना, चक्कर आना, नींद आना, छींक आना और रक्तचाप का अस्थायी रूप से कम होना शामिल है। कुछ मरीजों को हिचकी, ठंड लगना या मुँह में धातु जैसा स्वाद भी महसूस हो सकता है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में बहुत कम रक्तचाप, बेहोशी, एलर्जी, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, कैल्शियम का कम होना और दौरे पड़ना शामिल हो सकते हैं। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल अस्पताल या क्लिनिक में योग्य स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। इंजेक्शन से पहले, दौरान और बाद में रक्तचाप की जांच जरूरी है। इंजेक्शन से पहले शरीर में पानी की कमी नहीं होनी चाहिए। इस दवा को घर पर कभी न लें। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं, खासकर ब्लड प्रेशर की दवाओं के बारे में बताएं। इंजेक्शन के तुरंत बाद गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। चक्कर आना, बेहोशी या सांस लेने में तकलीफ हो तो तुरंत मेडिकल स्टाफ को बताएं।
💊 cytofos 500mg injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Reduction of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity","description":"This medicine is used in patients receiving cisplatin chemotherapy for ovarian cancer to reduce the risk of kidney damage caused by cisplatin.","evidence":"Well-established in selected patients"},{"condition":"Reduction of radiation-induced xerostomia","description":"This medicine is used in patients receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck to reduce dryness of the mouth caused by radiation damage to salivary glands.","evidence":"Well-established in selected patients"},{"condition":"Cytoprotection during platinum-based chemotherapy","description":"This medicine helps protect normal tissues from some toxic effects of platinum-based chemotherapy without reducing the anticancer effect in most studied settings.","evidence":"Established in specific regimens"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Reduction of chemotherapy-induced bone marrow suppression","description":"Some clinicians have used this medicine off-label to reduce low blood counts caused by certain chemotherapy regimens.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Protection against radiation-induced skin injury","description":"There is limited experience with this medicine for reducing skin reactions from radiation therapy.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Cytoprotection during cisplatin chemotherapy or radiation therapy
Also treats: Ovarian cancer treated with cisplatin, Head and neck cancer treated with radiation
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Amifostine |
| Brand Name | Amiget 500mg Injection |
| Manufacturer | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | BLOOD RELATED |
| Action Class | Cytoprotective agents- Kidney & Salivary gland |
| Route of Administration | Intravenous |
| Storage | Store the unreconstituted vial at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C. Protect from light. After reconstitution, use the solution as directed by the healthcare professional. Do not freeze the reconstituted solution. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the manufacturer's label for the exact shelf life. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the vial. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine is a prodrug that is dephosphorylated by alkaline phosphatase in tissues to form an active free thiol metabolite. This active metabolite acts as a scavenger of reactive oxygen species and reactive metabolites generated by chemotherapy and radiation. It also binds to and inactivates reactive platinum species and other toxic electrophiles. Because normal tissues have higher alkaline phosphatase activity and higher pH than many tumor tissues, the active metabolite is generated more rapidly in normal tissues, which helps protect them while limiting protection of tumor cells. The active metabolite can also cause vasodilation, which explains the temporary drop in blood pressure seen with this medicine.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take cytofos 500mg injection
Strength: This medicine is supplied as a 500 mg lyophilized powder for intravenous injection. It must be reconstituted before use.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is based on body surface area and is determined by the treating oncologist. A commonly used dose is 500 mg given as a short intravenous infusion over 15 minutes, starting 30 minutes before chemotherapy or radiation. The exact dose and schedule depend on the type of cancer treatment, the patient's kidney function, blood pressure, and overall health. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults may be more sensitive to the blood pressure lowering effects of this medicine. Blood pressure should be monitored closely, and the dose may need to be adjusted by the treating clinician based on kidney function and overall health. |
| Renal Impairment | This medicine is cleared by the kidneys, so patients with kidney impairment may have higher blood levels and more side effects. The dose may need to be reduced or the medicine avoided in severe kidney impairment. Kidney function should be checked before treatment, and the dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Hepatic Impairment | The effect of liver impairment on this medicine is not well established. Use with caution in patients with severe liver disease, and monitor closely. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is determined by the treating oncologist based on body surface area and clinical situation. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of cytofos 500mg injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Antihypertensive medicines | Major | |
| Other blood pressure lowering medicines | Major | |
| Cisplatin | Moderate | |
| Nephrotoxic medicines | Moderate | |
| Calcium supplements | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Antihypertensive medicines
- Other medicines that lower blood pressure
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Cisplatin
- Nephrotoxic medicines
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of low blood pressure, dizziness, and drowsiness when combined with this medicine. Patients should avoid alcohol before and after receiving this medicine unless their doctor approves it.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to amifostine or any component of this medicine","Severe dehydration","Severe low blood pressure","Inability to maintain adequate blood pressure during infusion","Use in patients where blood pressure monitoring is not possible"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine must be given only by a qualified healthcare professional in a monitored setting.","Blood pressure should be checked before, during, and after the infusion.","Patients should be well hydrated before receiving this medicine.","Avoid use in patients who are dehydrated or have low blood pressure.","Use with caution in patients with heart disease or those taking blood pressure medicines.","Monitor kidney function and calcium levels during treatment.","Do not drive or operate machinery immediately after receiving this medicine.","Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking before receiving this medicine."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Because of the potential for serious side effects in a nursing infant, breastfeeding should be discussed with the doctor before receiving this medicine.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine is unlikely because it is given by healthcare professionals in a controlled setting. If too much is given, the main concern is severe low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Treatment is supportive, including stopping the infusion, giving fluids, and monitoring blood pressure and heart rate. There is no specific antidote. Patients should be monitored until symptoms resolve.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given in a hospital or clinic setting, so a missed dose is unlikely. If a scheduled dose is missed, the healthcare team will decide whether to give it or adjust the schedule. Do not try to make up for a missed dose on your own.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be given only by a qualified healthcare professional in a setting where blood pressure and emergency support can be monitored. Patients should be well hydrated before the infusion, and blood pressure should be checked before, during, and after administration. Do not attempt to use this medicine at home or without medical supervision. Inform your doctor about all medicines you take, especially blood pressure medicines, because this medicine can lower blood pressure further. Tell your healthcare team if you have kidney problems, heart problems, low calcium levels, or a history of fainting. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery immediately after receiving this medicine, as it can cause drowsiness or dizziness. If you feel faint, dizzy, or short of breath during or after the infusion, alert the medical staff right away. Do not receive this medicine if you are dehydrated or have an active infection unless your doctor specifically approves it.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults may be more sensitive to the blood pressure lowering effects of this medicine. Blood pressure should be monitored closely, and the dose may need to be adjusted based on kidney function and overall health. Falls and dizziness are more likely in older patients, so extra care should be taken after the infusion.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under specialist care. If you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your oncologist before receiving this medicine. Effective contraception should be discussed for patients of childbearing potential during cancer treatment.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
There is no specific established guidance for this medicine after surgery. If you have recently had surgery, inform your doctor before receiving this medicine, as blood pressure and hydration status need to be stable.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you have received this medicine, especially if you are having dental work. Dry mouth from radiation therapy can increase the risk of dental problems, so good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are important.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise on the day you receive this medicine, especially if you feel dizzy, drowsy, or have low blood pressure. Light activity may be fine once you feel fully recovered, but check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine during cancer treatment.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine is given in a hospital or clinic, so you will need time off for the infusion and monitoring. It can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and low blood pressure, so you should not drive or operate machinery immediately after receiving it. Plan for someone else to drive you home. Most people can return to normal activities once the effects wear off, but follow your doctor's advice.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
This medicine is given under medical supervision, and the decision to stop is made by your treating oncologist. Do not stop or refuse treatment on your own. If you experience severe side effects such as fainting, severe allergic reaction, or difficulty breathing, the healthcare team will stop the infusion immediately and provide appropriate care.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
The long-term effects of this medicine are not fully established. It is usually given for a limited number of cycles as part of cancer treatment. Patients who receive it should have regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and calcium levels. Any persistent symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or decreased urine output should be reported to the doctor. Long-term follow-up is usually focused on the underlying cancer treatment and its effects.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
These measures can help reduce the risk of kidney damage and low blood pressure during chemotherapy.
Evidence: Well-establishedThese can help manage dry mouth from radiation therapy alongside or instead of this medicine.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no specific vaccine interactions established for this medicine. However, patients receiving cancer treatment may have a weakened immune system, so live vaccines should generally be avoided during chemotherapy or radiation. Discuss vaccination timing with your oncologist.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store the unreconstituted vial at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze the vial
✅ DO
Protect the vial from light
❌ DON'T
Do not store in direct sunlight
✅ DO
Keep in the original packaging
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Use the reconstituted solution as directed by the healthcare professional
❌ DON'T
Do not use the reconstituted solution if it is cloudy or contains particles
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is given in a hospital or clinic and is not for self-administration during travel. If you are traveling for treatment, carry a copy of your prescription and medical records. Keep the medicine in its original packaging and follow the storage instructions. If you need to travel after receiving this medicine, arrange for someone else to drive, as it can cause drowsiness or dizziness. Inform airport security staff if you are carrying medical documents or vials, and check customs rules for carrying prescription medicines across borders.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working within minutes after the intravenous infusion. It is usually given 15 to 30 minutes before chemotherapy or radiation so that it can protect normal tissues during the treatment.
A: No. This medicine must be given only by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic because it can cause a serious drop in blood pressure and other side effects that need monitoring.
A: No. This medicine does not treat cancer. It is used to protect normal tissues from some side effects of cancer treatment.
A: Lie down and inform the medical staff immediately. Do not try to stand up or walk on your own until you feel better.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for cytofos 500mg injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
natfost 500mg injectionNatco Pharma Ltd ₹87.52 90.7% CHEAPER
-
amiget 500mg injectionGLS Pharma Ltd. ₹1,687.50 80% COSTLIER
-
chemophos 500mg injectionCytogen Pharmaceuticals India Pvt Ltd ₹1,861.88 98.6% COSTLIER
-
amiphos 500mg injectionDabur India Ltd ₹1,910.00 103.7% COSTLIER
-
m-fost 500mg injectionShantha Biotech ₹2,343.75 150% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be taken at home like a normal injection.
Fact: This medicine must be given only by a healthcare professional in a monitored setting because it can cause a serious drop in blood pressure. - Myth: This medicine treats cancer directly.
Fact: This medicine does not treat cancer. It is used to protect normal tissues from some side effects of cancer treatment. - Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone receiving chemotherapy.
Fact: This medicine is used only in selected patients and is not suitable for those who are dehydrated, have low blood pressure, or have certain other conditions.