Name: Plicamycin (Mithracin, nee Mithramycin)
Class: Antibiotic (Cytotoxic)
Mechanism: Intercalates into DNA like actinomycin and blocks DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. Supposedly decreases serum calcium levels by direct toxic action on osteoclasts.
Absorption:
Dist.:
Metabolism.:
Excretion, t½:
Toxicity/S.E.s: Less severe w/doses for hypercalcemia than for neoplasms. Sudden onset of thrombocytopenia followed by hemorrhage. Hepatic and renal toxicity. Hypocalcemia. Monitor platelet count, liver/kidney fxn, and serum calcium. C/i for patients w/renal or hepatic disease, bone marrow disease, thrombocytopathy, coagulation disorders, or bleeding susceptibilities of other etiologies.
Utility: Treat severe hypercalcemia resulting from CA w/wo bony metastases. Treat testicular neoplasms.
Special Features: Use limited by toxicity.