Plicamycin (also known as mithramycin) is an antibiotic drug used to treat certain types of cancer. It is used to treat testicular cancer, Wilms' tumor, and some types of soft tissue sarcomas. It is usually given as an injection into a vein or muscle. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and hair loss. More serious side effects may include kidney problems and anemia.
Plicamycin, also known as mithramycin, is an antibiotic that was once used as an anticancer agent to treat testicular cancer, Paget's disease of bone, and hypercalcemia. It is produced by the bacterium Streptomyces plicatus .
The manufacturer discontinued production of plicamycin in 2000 because of several factors, including the availability of more effective and less toxic cancer treatments, as well as the difficulty of manufacturing the drug. However, plicamycin is still being studied for its potential use in new cancer treatments.
Here's a summary of some key points about Plicamycin:
- Type of drug: Antibiotic and antineoplastic agent
- Source: Bacterium Streptomyces plicatus
- Uses: Testicular cancer, Paget's disease of bone, hypercalcemia (investigational)
- Status: Discontinued production in 2000, investigational use only