Where is Vorinostat used?

Vorinostat is a type of medication called histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors. This is used for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). CTCL is a kind of condition in which certain cells of the body’s lymph system are called T-cells. It becomes cancerous and affects the skin. This medicine helps kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. 

How does Vorinostat work?

The capability of chemotherapy to kill cancer cells depends on its capacity to stop cell division. Typically, the medications work by damaging the DNA or RNA that tells the cell how to copy itself in the division. If the cells are unable to divide, they die. The faster the cells are dividing, the more likely it is that chemotherapy will kill the cell which causes the tumor to shrink. They also induce cell suicide. Chemotherapy drugs that affect cells only when they are dividing are called cell-cycle specific. Chemotherapy remedies that affect cells when they are inactive are called cell-cycle non-specific. The scheduling of chemotherapy is set based on the type of cells, the rate at which they divide, and the time at which a given drug is likely to be effective. This is why chemotherapy is typically given in cycles.

Vorinostat is a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor. Histone deacetylase is an enzyme that is normally present in the cells. In some cancer cells, there is an overexpression of HDACs. It is believed that inhibition of the HDAC activity causes cell cycle arrest and cell death.

How is Vorinostat taken?

Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor. Each dose is usually taken once a day. Swallow the medicine as a whole without chewing or crushing it. Take this prescription exactly as it is given to you. Do not suddenly stop this treatment without consulting your doctor. For best benefits from the medication, take it regularly as directed.

The dose of this medication will depend on your medical condition and response. Drink at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration while taking this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not add or take this medicine more frequently than prescribed. Your illness will not recover faster and the threat of serious side effects may be increased. 

What are the precautions in taking?

• Before starting Vorinostat, make sure you tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking. Do not take aspirin or products containing aspirin unless your doctor specifically permits this.
• Inform your health care professional if you are pregnant or may be pregnant before starting Vorinostat. This drug may be dangerous to the fetus. Pregnant women or those who may become pregnant must be advised of the possible risk to the fetus.
• Do not receive any kind of vaccination or immunization without the approval of your doctor while taking Vorinostat.
• Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine.
• Do not conceive a child while taking Vorinostat. Discuss with your doctor when you may safely become pregnant or conceive a child after therapy.