Azacytydyna

Azacytydyna is the Polish name for azacitidine, a nucleoside analogue of cytidine used as an antineoplastic agent. It is a hypomethylating agent approved for the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes and is used in select cases of acute myeloid leukemia and other myeloid malignancies. Azacitidine works after cellular activation to triphosphate forms, being incorporated into RNA and DNA, where it inhibits DNA methyltransferases and reduces DNA methylation. This epigenetic effect can restore the expression of silenced genes, promote differentiation of malignant cells, and induce apoptosis.

Azacitidine is administered by subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion. Common regimens include subcutaneous dosing of 75 mg/m2 daily for 7 consecutive days in a 28-day cycle, though other schedules exist depending on regional guidelines and the specific indication. Treatment duration is typically continued until disease progression or intolerable toxicity, with frequent monitoring of blood counts and organ function.

Side effects are mainly related to myelosuppression and include neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and injection-site reactions. Infections are a risk due to lowered blood cell counts. Hepatic or renal impairment may require dose adjustments. Hypersensitivity to azacitidine or to excipients such as mannitol is a potential contraindication. Caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and vaccination and drug interaction considerations should be reviewed with a clinician.

Overall, azacitidine represents a standard therapeutic option for myelodysplastic syndromes, offering survival and quality-of-life benefits for many patients when used under appropriate medical supervision.