Anthracycline chemotherapy (cancer-fighting drug)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Epirubicin hydrochloride (sold as Puridox Injection in Nigeria) is a strong cancer-fighting drug that works by damaging the DNA inside cancer cells so they cannot grow or multiply.
Intercalates into double-stranded DNA and inhibits topoisomerase II, preventing DNA unwinding and repair while generating reactive oxygen species that induce apoptosis in cancer cells.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
This is NOT a tablet — it is given as an injection directly into your vein (IV drip) by a trained doctor or nurse in a hospital or cancer treatment centre. The dose depends on your body size, the type of cancer, and your treatment plan. Never attempt to use this drug at home on your own.
Since this drug is given by a doctor in a hospital on a set schedule, if you miss an appointment, contact your cancer treatment team immediately to reschedule. Do not try to double up on doses.
Only receive this drug in a proper hospital or certified cancer treatment centre — never from roadside sellers or unregistered pharmacies. Make sure you attend all your follow-up appointments so your doctor can check your heart and blood counts regularly. Do not share or use leftover cancer drugs — they are extremely dangerous if used incorrectly.
Other heart-affecting drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) can increase the risk of heart damage when combined with epirubicin. Live vaccines (like oral polio or yellow fever vaccine) should be avoided during treatment because your immune system is weakened. Avoid alcohol completely as it puts extra stress on your liver and heart.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Epirubicin with your other drugs?
Epirubicin is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can seriously harm the unborn baby, and women of childbearing age must use reliable contraception during and for several months after treatment.
This drug is stored in the hospital or pharmacy. It should be kept in a refrigerator (2–8°C), protected from light and heat. In Nigeria's hot weather, it must never be left outside a fridge. Keep far away from children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.