Dactinomycin
Dactinomycin is a chemotherapy medication used to treat various cancers, including Wilms tumor, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, and other solid tumors. It works by binding to DNA and inhibiting RNA synthesis, which prevents cancer cells from multiplying. This cytotoxic agent is often used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs, particularly in pediatric oncology.
Dactinomycin is a chemotherapy drug that treats certain cancers by binding to DNA and blocking cancer cell growth.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01DA01
- RxNorm
- 3100
- Generic
- Dactinomycin
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Cosmegen
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- 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.
Dactinomycin is primarily used to treat Wilms tumor (a type of kidney cancer in children), rhabdomyosarcoma (a cancer of the muscles attached to bones), and Ewing's sarcoma (a bone and soft tissue cancer). It is also used for other solid tumors and gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (a rare pregnancy-related cancer). Often administered alongside other chemotherapy agents.
Dactinomycin is a cytotoxic actinomycin that intercalates between DNA base pairs, forming a stable complex that prevents RNA synthesis. By blocking RNA transcription, it inhibits protein production in cancer cells, leading to cell death.
This medication can cause severe side effects including bone marrow suppression, liver toxicity, and radiation recall reactions. It should only be administered under supervision of an oncologist. Patients require regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function during treatment.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy