Dacarbazine
Dacarbazine is an antineoplastic chemotherapy agent used primarily in the treatment of certain cancers. It works by interfering with DNA synthesis and function in rapidly dividing cells, leading to cell death. This medication is typically administered intravenously under the supervision of an oncologist in a clinical setting.
Dacarbazine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of melanoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and soft tissue sarcomas by interfering with cancer cell DNA.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01AX04
- RxNorm
- 3098
- Generic
- Dacarbazine
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dacarbazine is primarily used to treat metastatic malignant melanoma (skin cancer), Hodgkin lymphoma (often as part of ABVD regimen), and soft tissue sarcomas. It may also be used for other malignancies as determined by an oncologist.
Dacarbazine is an alkylating agent that works by forming cross-links in DNA strands, preventing DNA replication and transcription. It is metabolized in the liver to active intermediates that bind to cellular DNA, ultimately disrupting cell division and causing cancer cell death.
Dacarbazine is administered intravenously and may cause significant side effects including bone marrow suppression, nausea, vomiting, and flu-like symptoms. Patients require regular blood monitoring during treatment. It should be used with caution in patients with compromised liver or kidney function. Pregnancy category D - should not be used during pregnancy.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy