disodium cantharidinate

Disodium cantharidinate is a semi-synthetic derivative of cantharidin, a natural terpenoid toxin derived from the blister beetle (*Mylabris*). It is primarily utilized in China as an antineoplastic agent for the treatment of various solid tumors, most notably primary liver cancer, esophageal cancer, and gastric cancer. The drug functions as an inhibitor of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), which leads to the induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in malignant cells. A distinguishing clinical feature of disodium cantharidinate is its ability to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which helps counteract the myelosuppressive effects often associated with concurrent chemotherapy or radiotherapy. It is developed and marketed by Guizhou Shenqi Pharmaceutical in several formulations, including tablets and injections, and is also available in combination with Vitamin B6.

Brand names

Shenqi

Other names

斑蝥酸钠Sodium cantharidinateDisodium cantharidate