CA Atra-10 Capsules

Ca atra-10 contains (all trans retinic acid) which is an anti-cancer ("Antineoplastic" or "Cytotoxic") chemotherapy drug. Atra is classified as a "Retinoid." atra is used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia (apl, apml). 
Ca atra-10 is given by mouth (in capsule form). One size capsule - 10mg, do not crush chew or dissolve capsules. Protect from light. Take ca atra-10 with food. It also is used as a lotion (topical) for patients with acne and certain rashes. The amount of ca atra-10 you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems and the type of cancer you have. Your doctor will determine your dosage and schedule.

Manufactured in india by Eastern healthcare Marketed by bryogen pharmaceuticals pvt. Ltd.Uses: Atra is used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia (apl, apml).Note:  if a drug has been approved for one use, physicians sometimes elect to use this same drug for other problems if they believe it might be helpful.

How atra is given: Atra is given by mouth (in capsule form).  One size capsule - 10mg, do not crush chew or dissolve capsules. Protect from light.Take atra with food. It also is used as a lotion (topical) for patients with acne and certain rashes.The amount of atra you will receive depends on many factors, including your height and weight, your general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer you have.  Your doctor will determine your dosage and schedule.

Side effects of atra: Important things to remember about the side effects of atra:
Most people do not experience all of the side effects listed.Side effects are often predictable in terms of their onset and duration. Side effects are almost always reversible and will go away after treatment is complete.There are many options to help minimize or prevent side effects.There is no relationship between the presence or severity of side effects and the effectiveness of the medication.

The following side effects are common (occurring in greater than 30%) for patients taking atra:

• Typical retinoid toxicity (symptoms that are similar to those found in patients taking high doses of vitamin a
• headache,
• fever,
• dry skin,
• dry mucous membranes (mouth, nose),
• bone pain,
• nausea and vomiting,
• rash,
• mouth sores,
• itching,
• sweating,
• eyesight changes Flu-like symptoms:
• malaise,
• chills
• Bleeding problems

• Infections Swelling of feet or ankles Pain (bone and joint pain, chest discomfort)
• Abdominal pain

The following are less common side effects (occurring in 10-29%) for patients receiving atra:

• Weight increase
• Heart rate irregularities (arrhythmias - see heart problems)
• Flushing Poor appetite
• Weight loss Earache or feeling of fullness in the ears
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Numbness and tingling in hands and feet
• Anxiety 
• Heartburn
• Low blood pressure 
• Insomnia Depression
• High blood pressure Confusion 

A very serious side effect that is preventable with proper monitoring and immediate treatment is apl differentiation syndrome. This syndrome is a reaction between the drug and the leukemia.  This syndrome produces fever, difficulty breathing, weight gain, lung and heart problems.  It is generally treated with high-dose steroids.  In most cases, treatment with atra will continue.  Be sure to let your health care professional know if you experience fever of 100.4f or 38c, difficulty breathing, or sudden weight gain.  The syndrome usually occurs during the first month of treatment, with some cases reported following the first dose.

Not all side effects are listed above, some that are rare (occurring in less than 10% of patients) are not listed here.  However, you should always inform your health care provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.