Doxil

Doxil (pegylated liposomal doxorubicin) is an anthracycline topoisomerase II inhibitor encapsulated in a pegylated liposomal delivery system. Developed by Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development (through its subsidiary Ortho Biotech), the formulation is designed to enhance the therapeutic index of doxorubicin by prolonging circulation time and increasing drug concentration in tumor tissues via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, while simultaneously reducing the risk of cardiotoxicity. Its primary mechanism of action involves the inhibition of DNA topoisomerase II and intercalation into DNA, which prevents DNA replication and induces apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells. Doxil is approved for the treatment of ovarian cancer, multiple myeloma (in combination with bortezomib), and AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma. In the context of breast cancer, it has been evaluated in Phase 3 trials in combination with docetaxel for patients with advanced disease previously treated with anthracyclines, demonstrating significant improvement in time to progression.

Brand names

DoxilCaelyx

Other names

pegylated liposomal doxorubicinliposomal doxorubicindoxorubicin hydrochloride liposome injection