Plicamycin (Systemic)

Brand Names : Mithracin, mithramycin

Proper Use of This Medicine

Plicamycin sometimes causes nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. However, it is very important that you continue to receive the medicine, even if you begin to feel ill. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Dosing - The dose of plicamycin will be different for different patients. The dose is based on body weight and will be determined by your doctor. Follow your doctor's orders . The following information includes only the average doses of plicamycin.

• For injection dosage form:
  • To treat cancer:
    • Adults and children - The dose that is used may depend on a number of things, including what the medicine is being used for, the patient's weight, and whether or not other medicines are also being taken. If you are receiving plicamycin at home, follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . If you have any questions about the proper dose of plicamycin, ask your doctor.
  • To treat hypercalcemia or hypercalciuria (too much calcium in the blood or urine):
    • Adults - The dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. At first, the usual dose is 15 to 25 micrograms (mcg) per kg (6.8 to 11.4 mcg per pound) of body weight a day, injected slowly into a vein. The dose is given over a period of four to six hours once a day for three to four days. Your doctor may repeat the treatment if needed.
    • Children - Dose must be determined by your doctor.