Mitoxantrone
Mitoxantrone is an antineoplastic agent used primarily in the treatment of certain cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia, advanced prostate cancer, and multiple sclerosis. It works by binding to DNA and interfering with both DNA and RNA function, ultimately preventing cancer cell replication and causing cell death.
Mitoxantrone is a chemotherapy medication that disrupts cancer cell DNA to slow or stop their growth.
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
- L01DB07
- RxNorm
- 7005
- Generic
- Mitoxantrone
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- 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.
Mitoxantrone is used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (in adults), advanced hormone-refractory prostate cancer, and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. It is also sometimes used in combination regimens for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and breast cancer.
Mitoxantrone intercalates into DNA through hydrogen bonding, causing DNA crosslinks and strand breaks. It also interferes with RNA function and is a potent inhibitor of topoisomerase II, an enzyme essential for DNA replication and cell division. This disruption of cellular processes leads to cancer cell death.
Mitoxantrone is administered intravenously by healthcare professionals. Major risks include cardiotoxicity (potentially irreversible heart damage), myelosuppression (low blood cell counts), and liver toxicity. It may cause severe side effects including nausea, hair loss, and increased risk of infections. Patients require regular cardiac monitoring and blood tests during treatment. The medication is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus.
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