Azashine contains azacitidine, a chemotherapy medicine used to treat certain types of blood and bone marrow cancers. It is primarily prescribed for myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and some types of leukemia. Azacitidine is classified as a hypomethylating agent, meaning it helps restore normal cell function by altering gene expression.

Mechanism of Action:
Azacitidine works through a dual mechanism:

1. Hypomethylation of DNA

   • In cancer cells, certain genes that suppress tumor growth are often switched off by abnormal DNA methylation.

   • Azacitidine inhibits the enzyme DNA methyltransferase, leading to reduced methylation and reactivation of tumor-suppressor genes.

2. Cytotoxic effects on rapidly dividing cells

   • When incorporated into RNA and DNA, it disrupts protein synthesis and cell replication, leading to cancer cell death.

     Uses:
     Azashine is used in the treatment of:

     • Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), which are a group of disorders caused by poorly formed or dysfunctional blood cells

     • Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML)

     • Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in patients who may not be suitable for intensive chemotherapy

       Adverse Effects:
       Azacitidine, like other chemotherapy drugs, can cause side effects that range from mild to serious:

       Common side effects:

       • Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite

       • Injection site reactions (if given subcutaneously)

       • Low blood counts leading to fatigue, infections, or bleeding

       • Constipation or diarrhea