Alrubicin 10mg Injection (Epirubicin): 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
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Fever above 38°C with chills
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe nausea or vomiting that does not stop
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Pain or burning at the injection site
- Decreased urine output
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is epricin 10mg injection used for?
This medicine is an injectable chemotherapy drug containing epirubicin. It is used to treat several types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, and stomach cancer. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells and is given only by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting.
- Generic Name: Epirubicin (10mg)
- Manufacturer: Shantha Biotech
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 epricin 10mg injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एपिरुबिसिन नामक कीमोथेरेपी दवा है, जिसे इंजेक्शन के रूप में नस में दिया जाता है। इसका उपयोग स्तन कैंसर, अंडाशय के कैंसर, पेट के कैंसर, फेफड़ों के कैंसर और कुछ प्रकार के ल्यूकीमिया और लिम्फोमा के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह कैंसर कोशिकाओं के डीएनए को नुकसान पहुंचाकर उन्हें बढ़ने और फैलने से रोकती है। यह दवा केवल अस्पताल या कैंसर डे-केयर सेंटर में प्रशिक्षित स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जाती है। इसे घर पर स्वयं न लगाएं।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, भूख न लगना, मुंह में छाले, बालों का झड़ना, थकान और रक्त कोशिकाओं की संख्या कम होना शामिल है। कुछ रोगियों का पेशाब इंजेक्शन के बाद एक-दो दिन तक लाल-नारंगी दिख सकता है, जो हानिकारक नहीं है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में हृदय को नुकसान, गंभीर संक्रमण और रक्तस्राव की समस्या हो सकती है। अगर आपको सीने में दर्द, सांस लेने में तकलीफ, बुखार, ठंड लगना या असामान्य रक्तस्राव हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल अस्पताल या कैंसर डे-केयर सेंटर में प्रशिक्षित स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। इसे घर पर स्वयं न लगाएं। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं, सप्लीमेंट्स और हर्बल उत्पादों के बारे में बताएं। इलाज के दौरान और उसके कुछ महीनों बाद तक गर्भनिरोधक उपाय अपनाएं। लाइव वैक्सीन न लगवाएं। बुखार, ठंड लगना, गले में खराश, असामान्य रक्तस्राव, सीने में दर्द या सांस लेने में तकलीफ होने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं। सभी निर्धारित रक्त परीक्षण और हृदय जांच समय पर कराएं।
💊 epricin 10mg injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Breast cancer","description":"Used as part of adjuvant or metastatic breast cancer regimens, often in combination with other chemotherapy agents.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Ovarian cancer","description":"Prescribed for advanced ovarian cancer, frequently in combination with platinum-based drugs.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Gastric cancer","description":"Used in combination chemotherapy for stomach cancer.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Lung cancer","description":"Included in some regimens for small cell and non-small cell lung cancer.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Non-Hodgkin lymphoma","description":"Part of multi-drug chemotherapy for certain lymphomas.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Leukemia","description":"Used in some acute leukemia treatment protocols.","evidence":"Established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Bladder cancer (intravesical)","description":"Sometimes instilled into the bladder for superficial bladder cancer, though this is a specialized procedure.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Hepatocellular carcinoma","description":"Occasionally used in transarterial chemoembolization for liver cancer.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Breast cancer
Also treats: Ovarian cancer, Gastric cancer, Lung cancer, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Leukemia
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Epirubicin (10mg) |
| Brand Name | epricin 10mg injection |
| Manufacturer | Shantha Biotech |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Alkaloids-cytotoxic agents |
| Route of Administration | Parenteral (intravenous) |
| Storage | Store in a refrigerator at 2-8°C, protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep in the original carton until use. Once prepared, use according to hospital pharmacy guidelines. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the manufacturer's packaging for the exact shelf life. Typically 24-36 months from the date of manufacture when stored properly. |
| 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
Epirubicin works by intercalating between the base pairs of DNA and by inhibiting topoisomerase II, an enzyme needed for DNA replication and repair. This leads to DNA strand breaks and stops cancer cells from dividing. It also generates free radicals that damage cell membranes and DNA. Because cancer cells divide rapidly, they are more sensitive to this damage than most normal cells.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take epricin 10mg injection
Strength: Injection: 10 mg vial
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is decided by an oncologist based on the type of cancer, stage, body surface area, and overall health. Common regimens use doses ranging from 60 to 120 mg per square meter of body surface area, given once every 3 to 4 weeks, often in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and blood counts. Never self-administer this medicine. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially heart and bone marrow effects. Doses are often adjusted based on heart function, blood counts, and overall health. Close monitoring is required. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment is usually not needed for mild kidney problems, but caution is advised in severe kidney impairment. Kidney function should be checked before and during treatment. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Dose reduction is often needed in patients with liver problems because this medicine is mainly cleared by the liver. Liver function tests should be checked before each dose, and the dose adjusted by the oncologist. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum total cumulative dose is generally limited to 900 mg per square meter of body surface area over a lifetime to reduce the risk of heart damage. Individual doses are determined by the oncologist. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of epricin 10mg injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Trastuzumab | Major | |
| Paclitaxel | Major | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Live vaccines | Major |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Other anthracyclines (e.g., doxorubicin)
- Trastuzumab
- Live vaccines
- Paclitaxel
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Cimetidine
- Warfarin
- Other bone marrow suppressants
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while receiving this medicine because it can increase the risk of liver damage and worsen nausea and fatigue.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Severe heart disease or recent heart attack","Very low blood cell counts","Active serious infection","Previous severe allergic reaction to epirubicin or other anthracyclines","Pregnancy or breastfeeding","Severe liver impairment"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine must only be given by a healthcare professional.","Heart function must be monitored before and during treatment.","Blood counts must be checked regularly because of bone marrow suppression.","Avoid live vaccines during treatment.","Use effective contraception during and after treatment.","Report any fever, chills, or unusual bleeding immediately.","Avoid alcohol during treatment.","Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. Breastfeeding should be stopped before starting treatment and should not be resumed until the doctor says it is safe.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe bone marrow suppression, heart damage, and liver injury. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and may include blood transfusions, antibiotics, and heart support. If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical care immediately.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic. If you miss a scheduled appointment for your injection, contact your cancer care team as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not try to catch up on your own.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must only be given by a trained healthcare professional in a hospital or cancer day-care unit. Never attempt to self-administer this injection. Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and herbal products you take, because some can increase the risk of heart or liver problems. Use effective contraception during treatment and for several months afterward if you or your partner could become pregnant. Avoid live vaccines while receiving this medicine. Drink plenty of fluids unless your doctor advises otherwise. Report any fever, chills, sore throat, unusual bleeding, bruising, chest pain, or shortness of breath immediately. Keep all scheduled blood tests and heart check-ups, even if you feel well. Do not stop or change treatment on your own; only your oncologist can decide to adjust or stop this medicine.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more likely to experience heart and bone marrow side effects. Doses may need to be adjusted, and close monitoring is required.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can harm a developing baby. Women should use effective contraception during treatment and for several months afterward. Men should also use contraception. Discuss pregnancy planning with your doctor before starting treatment.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine can affect wound healing and increase infection risk after surgery. Inform your surgeon and oncologist about your treatment schedule.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Because this medicine can lower blood counts and increase bleeding risk, tell your dentist about your treatment before any dental procedure. Routine dental work may need to be postponed until blood counts recover.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
You may feel tired during treatment, so avoid strenuous exercise. Light activities like walking are usually fine if you feel well. Always check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
You may need to take time off work during treatment cycles because of fatigue, nausea, and low blood counts. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Discuss your work schedule with your doctor.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine on your own. Only your oncologist can decide to stop or change treatment based on your response, side effects, and overall health. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine can increase the risk of heart damage, especially at higher total doses. Regular heart monitoring is important. There is also a small risk of developing a secondary cancer later in life. Patients should continue follow-up with their oncologist even after treatment ends.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Depending on the cancer type, other drugs like doxorubicin or taxanes may be used.
Evidence: Well-establishedSome cancers may respond to targeted drugs instead of or in addition to chemotherapy.
Evidence: Established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with this medicine because the immune system is suppressed. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but their effectiveness can be reduced. Discuss vaccination with your oncologist.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store in a refrigerator at 2-8°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze
✅ DO
Keep in the 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 the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
This medicine is given in a hospital or cancer care center, so travel should be planned around your treatment schedule. If you need to travel, carry a copy of your prescription and medical records. Keep the medicine in its original packaging and store it in a refrigerator at 2-8°C during travel if you are carrying it. Check with your doctor before traveling, especially if you need treatment while away. Inform airport security about your medical condition and carry a doctor's letter.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine is given as an intravenous injection by a healthcare professional in a hospital or cancer care center.
A: The schedule is decided by your oncologist, but it is often given once every 3 to 4 weeks as part of a chemotherapy cycle.
A: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, mouth sores, and low blood counts.
A: You may feel tired or dizzy after treatment, so it is best to arrange for someone else to drive you home.
A: No, this medicine passes into breast milk and may harm the baby. Breastfeeding should be stopped during treatment.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for epricin 10mg injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
anthracin 10mg injectionDabur India Ltd ₹15.10 96.4% CHEAPER
-
epineon 10mg injectionNeon Laboratories Ltd ₹169.77 59.3% CHEAPER
-
epithra 10mg injectionGlenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹251.00 39.8% CHEAPER
-
innorubicin 10mg injectionInnova Formulations Pvt Ltd ₹255.37 38.7% CHEAPER
-
erubin 10mg injectionRPG Life Sciences Ltd ₹258.00 38.1% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be taken at home like a regular injection.
Fact: This medicine must only be given by a trained healthcare professional in a hospital or cancer care setting. - Myth: Hair loss from this medicine is permanent.
Fact: Hair usually grows back after treatment is completed. - Myth: This medicine is safe during pregnancy.
Fact: This medicine can harm the developing baby and is not recommended during pregnancy.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Epirubicin injection
Brand Alternatives
- Alrubicin 10mg injection