Trabectedin
Trabectedin is an alkylating antineoplastic agent used primarily to treat advanced soft tissue sarcomas and relapsed ovarian cancer. It works by binding to DNA in the minor groove, forming adducts that disrupt DNA function and inhibit tumor cell proliferation. This medication is typically reserved for patients who have not responded to other standard chemotherapy regimens.
Trabectedin is a DNA-binding alkylating agent used to treat certain soft tissue sarcomas and ovarian cancer by disrupting cancer cell DNA function.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01CX01
- RxNorm
- 1716278
- Generic
- Trabectedin
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Yondelis
- 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.
Trabectedin is indicated for the treatment of advanced soft tissue sarcomas (including liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma) after failure of anthracycline-based chemotherapy, and for relapsed platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer in combination with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin.
As an alkylating agent, trabectedin binds to guanine residues in the minor groove of DNA, forming covalent adducts that bend the DNA helix toward the major groove. This disrupts DNA replication and transcription, triggering DNA damage repair pathways and ultimately leading to tumor cell apoptosis.
Trabectedin must be administered via central venous access due to its vesicant properties. It carries a risk of severe neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, and rhabdomyolysis. Concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers requires dose adjustment. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Cardiac monitoring is recommended due to potential cardiotoxicity.
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