Cantret 50 Mg Capsules

What is Cantret 50

Cantret 50 is an antineoplastic medication used to treat advanced ovarian cancer in adult patients, mainly when other treatments have not been effective. Natco Pharma Ltd manufactures it.

Its primary ingredient is Altretamine, which is a cytotoxic agent belonging to the triazine class of compounds. It is most commonly prescribed for patients who have developed resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy regimens or have experienced recurrence after initial treatment.

Cantret damages the DNA of rapidly dividing cancer cells, preventing them from growing and multiplying. Common side effects of the medicine include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and peripheral neuropathy.

Less common but serious effects may include bone marrow suppression and neurotoxicity. During treatment, blood counts and neurological function should be regularly monitored. The standard dosage is individualized based on body surface area and response to treatment.

What are the benefits of Cantret 50

Cantret 50 (Altretamine) is an effective option to treat ovarian cancer. The medicine acts as a cell-cycle non-specific antineoplastic agent. It works by alkylating DNA, which disrupts the structure and function of genetic material within cancer cells.

This process interferes with cell division and ultimately triggers cell death (apoptosis) in cancer tissues. Cantret is believed to undergo metabolic activation in the liver.

The primary benefits of Cantret include:

• Effective against advanced ovarian cancer, particularly in cases where platinum-based therapies have failed.
• It may provide disease stabilization and symptom relief in patients with limited treatment options.
• It can be administered orally, allowing for outpatient treatment and improving quality of life.

It is crucial to note that Cantret capsules are typically used as a palliative treatment (symptom management and relief) rather than a curative one, and their efficacy should be regularly evaluated throughout the treatment course.

How to take Cantret 50

Cantret is a prescription medication that should be taken strictly as per your doctor's instructions. Here are the general guidelines:

• Take the capsule in divided doses after meals, typically four times a day or at bedtime.
• Swallow capsules whole with a full glass of water. Do not break or chew it.
• Take it with food.
• Do not exceed 260 mg/m² daily (based on body surface area).

Strength and substitutes

Currently, no strengths and substitutes for Cantret are available at Cheap Medicine Shop.

What are the side effects of Cantret 50

Cantret is generally tolerable when properly monitored. However, it may cause side effects, including:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• Myelosuppression (reduced blood cell production)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Mood disorders or confusion

These adverse effects resolve quickly. However, they should be reported to your healthcare provider if they worsen.

Safety Advice

Liver disease

There is limited safety information available. Consult a doctor for safety advice.

Kidney impairment

It is safe if prescribed for those with kidney disease. However, consulting a doctor is necessary if you have a severe kidney issue.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women

Cantret is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding and used only if necessary, and the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult a doctor for personalized safety information.

Avoid

Alcohol consumption should be avoided while taking Cantret as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity and enhance side effects such as nausea and vomiting.