Zolinza (Vorinostat) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 10, 2012

Zolinza

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Zolinza

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ZOLINZA®
(vorinostat)

DRUG DESCRIPTION

ZOLINZA contains vorinostat, which is described chemically as N-hydroxy-N'-phenyloctanediamide. The empirical formula is C₁₄H₂₀N₂O₃. The molecular weight is 264.32 and the structural formula is:

ZOLINZA® (vorinostat) Structural Formula Illustration

Vorinostat is a white to light orange powder. It is very slightly soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol, isopropanol and acetone, freely soluble in dimethyl sulfoxide and insoluble in methylene chloride. It has no chiral centers and is non-hygroscopic. The differential scanning calorimetry ranged from 161.7 (endotherm) to 163.9°C. The pH of saturated water solutions of vorinostat drug substance was 6.6. The pKa of vorinostat was determined to be 9.2.

Each 100 mg ZOLINZA capsule for oral administration contains 100 mg vorinostat and the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, sodium croscarmellose and magnesium stearate. The capsule shell excipients are titanium dioxide, gelatin and sodium lauryl sulfate.

What are the possible side effects of vorinostat (Zolinza)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using vorinostat and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that gets worse with breathing, coughing up blood, fainting;
pain or swelling in one or both legs;
pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
black, bloody, or tarry stools;

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What are the precautions when taking vorinostat (Zolinza)?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease.

This drug may cause dizziness. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This medication is not recommended for...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 11/29/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.