Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin: Special Formulation to Reduce Toxicity to the Heart

Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin: Special Formulation to Reduce Toxicity to the Heart

Doxorubicin, also known as adriamycin is an effective drug against various types of cancers. But an important adverse effect of adriamcyin is that it can weaken the heart muscle if a certain dose is exceeded, in some individuals. A special formulation in which the medication is encapsulated within two layers known as liposome, is useful in reducing this toxicity. PEG or polyethylene glycol polymer is used to form these liposomes. Liposome covered adriamycin remains in blood five times more than the usual medication. Because of bigger size, its entry into normal blood vessels of the heart is reduced. At the same time it can enter the abnormal blood vessels of the tumour and destroy the tumour cells. Hence pegylated liposomal doxorubicin has better effect against the tumor and lesser side effects on the heart.