Ixabepilone
Ixabepilone is an antineoplastic agent used to treat metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer, particularly when other chemotherapy options have failed or are no longer effective. It belongs to a class of drugs called epothilones and works by targeting microtubules within cancer cells to inhibit their growth and division.
Ixabepilone is a chemotherapy drug used for advanced breast cancer that works by disrupting microtubule function in cancer cells.
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
- L01DC04
- RxNorm
- 337523
- Generic
- Ixabepilone
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- IXEMPRA
- 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.
Ixabepilone is indicated for the treatment of metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer, either as monotherapy or in combination with capecitabine, in patients who have previously received anthracycline and taxane therapy.
As a semi-synthetic analog of epothilone B, ixabepilone binds directly to β-tubulin subunits on microtubules. This binding suppresses microtubule dynamics and inhibits the dynamic instability of microtubules, which are essential for cell division. By stabilizing microtubules and preventing their normal function, ixabepilone arrests the cell cycle and induces apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Ixabepilone is administered via intravenous infusion and should only be handled by trained healthcare professionals. Common side effects include peripheral neuropathy, myalgia, arthralgia, and hematologic abnormalities. Premedication with antihistamines and corticosteroids is typically required to prevent hypersensitivity reactions. It is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment and should be used with caution in patients with diabetes or neurological disorders.
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