Doxorubicin: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Cardiomyopathy: Myocardial damage, including acute left ventricular failure can occur with doxorubicin.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label b05d7515…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
Cardiomyopathy: Myocardial damage, including acute left ventricular failure can occur with doxorubicin. The risk of cardiomyopathy is proportional to the cumulative exposure with incidences from 1% to 20% for cumulative doses from 300 mg/m2 to 500 mg/m2 when doxorubicin is administered every 3 weeks. The risk of cardiomyopathy is further increased with concomitant cardiotoxic therapy. Assess LVEF before and regularly during and after treatment with doxorubicin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 )]. Secondary Malignancies: Secondary acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) occur at a higher incidence in patients treated with anthracyclines, including doxorubicin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2 )]. Extravasation and Tissue Necrosis: Extravasation of doxorubicin can result in severe local tissue injury and necrosis requiring wide excision of the affected area and skin grafting.Immediately terminate the drug, and apply ice to the affected area [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3 )]. Severe myelosuppression resulting in serious infection, septic shock, requirement for transfusions, hospitalization, and death may occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4 )].
Conditions associated with Doxorubicin in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Doxorubicin used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Doxorubicin?
Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.
Does Doxorubicin require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Doxorubicin.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.