liposomal cytarabine (3a0d74)

Liposomal cytarabine is a specialized formulation of the antimetabolite cytarabine encapsulated in liposomes for intrathecal administration. This formulation encapsulates cytarabine within liposomes, which are tiny fatty spheres that help deliver the medication more effectively to target sites while reducing side effects. Liposome-encapsulated cytarabine is primarily indicated for the intrathecal treatment of lymphomatous meningitis. The liposomal encapsulation allows for prolonged drug release and extended half-life compared to standard cytarabine formulations. After intrathecal administration, the drug is slowly released from the liposomes, providing sustained exposure in the cerebrospinal fluid. Cytarabine works by inhibiting DNA synthesis, primarily affecting cells during the S-phase of cell division. Clinical studies have shown that liposomal cytarabine demonstrates pronounced effectiveness in treating lymphomatous meningitis with reduced cardiotoxicity compared to liposomal anthracyclines. The encapsulation efficiency of cytarabine in this formulation has been reported to be as high as 86.30%. The drug is administered intrathecally (directly into the cerebrospinal fluid) rather than intravenously, which allows it to bypass the blood-brain barrier and deliver the medication directly to the central nervous system where lymphomatous meningitis occurs.

Brand names

DepoCyt

Other names

cytarabine liposome injection