Dantrolene Sodium and Paclitaxel Intravenous

• 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: paclitaxel
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Onxol, Taxol

Paclitaxel injection is used to treat advanced cancer of the ovaries, breast, non-small cell lung cancer, and Kaposi sarcoma. Kaposi sarcoma is a cancer of the skin and mucous membranes that is commonly found in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Paclitaxel belongs to the group of medicines called antineoplastics. It interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Since the growth of normal body cells may also be affected, other unwanted effects will also occur. Some of these may be serious and must be reported to your doctor. Other effects may not be serious but may cause concern. Some effects may not occur until months or years after the medicine is used.

Before you begin treatment with paclitaxel, you and your doctor should talk about the good paclitaxel will do as well as the risks of using it.

Paclitaxel is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.