Doxil

Doxil is the brand name for pegylated liposomal doxorubicin hydrochloride, a chemotherapy agent used to treat several cancers. It consists of the anthracycline antibiotic doxorubicin encapsulated within pegylated liposomes, which alters the distribution of the drug in the body compared with conventional doxorubicin.

The liposomal formulation prolongs the drug’s circulation time and enhances delivery to tumors via the enhanced permeability and retention effect, while reducing exposure to some healthy tissues. This can modify the toxicity profile and may allow dosing strategies that differ from standard doxorubicin.

Indications commonly include ovarian cancer after platinum-based therapy, AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma, and multiple myeloma. In some regions, Doxil may be used for additional cancer types or in different treatment lines, depending on local approvals and guidelines.

Administration generally involves an intravenous infusion given every few weeks, with dosing guided by body surface area and prior therapies. Infusion times are typically monitored to manage potential reactions, and treatment may be continued or adjusted based on response and tolerability. Regular monitoring of heart function is recommended, as doxorubicin can affect cardiac performance even in liposomal form, and cumulative dose considerations remain relevant.

Common adverse effects include hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia), mucositis, fatigue, nausea, and low blood counts. Less frequent but serious risks include cardiotoxicity, liver function abnormalities, and infusion-related reactions. The safety profile is influenced by the formulation and individual patient factors, and clinicians weigh benefits against potential toxicities when selecting therapy. Historically, Doxil was approved in the United States in 1995 for ovarian cancer, with later approvals for Kaposi’s sarcoma and multiple myeloma; in Europe, similar formulations are marketed as Caelyx.