Plicamycin
Plicamycin is an antineoplastic antibiotic that works by binding to DNA and inhibiting RNA synthesis, preventing cancer cell replication. It is primarily used to treat certain types of testicular cancer and is also utilized to manage hypercalcemia associated with malignancies. Due to significant toxicities, its clinical use has declined in favor of safer chemotherapy alternatives.
Plicamycin is an anticancer antibiotic used for testicular cancer and cancer-related hypercalcemia, though its use has decreased due to toxicity concerns.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01DC02
- RxNorm
- 6995
- Generic
- Plicamycin
- 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.
Plicamycin is indicated for the treatment of testicular cancer, particularly embryonal cell carcinoma, and for the management of hypercalcemia in patients with malignancy when other treatments are not appropriate.
As a cytotoxic antibiotic, plicamycin binds to the minor groove of DNA and inhibits RNA synthesis, leading to decreased protein production and disruption of cancer cell growth and division.
This medication carries significant risks including severe bone marrow suppression, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and hemorrhagic diathesis. It requires careful monitoring of blood counts, liver and kidney function. Due to its toxicity profile, it has largely been replaced by safer chemotherapy agents and is typically reserved for cases where other treatments have failed.
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 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy