Dantrolene Sodium and Hexalen

• Generic Name: dantrolene
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Dantrium, Dantrium Intravenous, Revonto, Ryanodex

Used orally for management of spasticity resulting from upper motor neuron disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, stroke syndrome).

Evidence supporting use is limited and the drug is associated with many adverse effects, some of which may be severe (e.g., hepatotoxicity); however, subtle but meaningful improvement (e.g., decrease in severity of spasticity, ability to resume daily function) may occasionally occur in some patients.

Ineffective in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Not indicated for the treatment of muscle spasms resulting from rheumatic disorders or musculoskeletal trauma.

IV treatment of fulminant hypermetabolism of skeletal muscle that is characteristic of malignant hyperthermia crisis; should be used with and not as a substitute for supportive measures (e.g., oxygen, treatment of metabolic acidosis, cooling procedures).

Dantrolene sodium for injectable suspension (Ryanodex) is designated an orphan drug by FDA for this use.

Also has been used preoperatively to prevent or attenuate the development of malignant hyperthermia in susceptible individuals; however, prophylactic use no longer recommended because of adverse effects and questionable benefit.

Has been used for the treatment of neuroleptic malignant syndrome; fatalities reported despite therapy with the drug.

• Generic Name: altretamine
• Dosage Forms: capsule
• Other Brand Names: Hexalen

Hexalen is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.

Hexalen is used to ease the symptoms of ovarian cancer. This medication will not treat the cancer itself.

Hexalen is usually given after other cancer medicines have been tried without success.

Hexalen may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.