decitabine, an agent that prevents DNA methylation, halting growth of rapid proliferation blasts. ▪ INDICATIONS: This drug is used to treat naive and experienced myelodysplastic syndrome. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pregnancy, lactation, severe neurotoxicity, severe blood dyscrasias, and known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibit its use. Its use is also contraindicated in children. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Adverse effects of this drug include confusion, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, hematoma, and cellulitis. Life-threatening side effects include neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and anemia. Common side effects include headache; anxiety; dizziness; hypoesthesia; insomnia; edema; murmur; hypotension; nausea; anorexia; vomiting; diarrhea; constipation; stomatitis; alopecia; ecchymosis; erythema; pallor; petechiae; pruritus; rash; swelling of the face; urticaria; decreased potassium, sodium, magnesium, and albumin; increased or decreased glucose; myalgia; arthralgia; back pain; chest wall pain; pain in the limbs; cough; crackles; hypoxia; pharyngitis; pneumonia; and pulmonary edema.
