Brand Name: Istodax®
Romidepsin is a FDA approved treatment for patients who have received at least one prior systemic therapy. It is classified as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. HDAC inhibitors target DNA associated proteins (histones) and allow the cell’s genes to be transcribed or expressed in a way that may help cancer cells die.
It is used to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL).
Romidepsin is delivered by intravenous infusion over approximately four hours, three weeks in a row, followed by one week of rest.
In clinical trials with romidepsin, approximately 35% of patients responded to romidepsin.
Romidepsin can cause a condition called QT prolongation of your heart, which in turn can cause irregular heart rhythm. This is potentially a serious condition, thus, certain patients may require an EKG prior to starting romidepsin. Please talk to your doctor about all the medications that you are taking to make sure there are no concerning drug interactions
Patients may be prescribed an oral magnesium or potassium supplement aimed at keeping electrolyte levels within range during the course of romidepsin treatment.
Increasing fluid intake days before treatment may help with reducing treatment-associated nausea.
Extra intravenous fluids and anti-nausea medications are frequently deployed to help patients manage potential side effects.
The following is not an exhaustive list of the possible side effects. For a complete list of possible side effects, please see the manufacturer's available information on the specific therapy.
Fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, taste disturbance, weight loss, electrolyte disturbances, and lower blood counts are common side effects of romidepsin.