Epirubicin, closely related to doxorubicin and daunorubicin, is a cytotoxic anthracycline that binds to DNA and inhibits DNA and protein synthesis, leading to cell death. It also interferes with replication and transcription by inhibiting DNA helicase and generates cytotoxic free radicals.

Epirubicin is used as adjunctive therapy in patients with axillary node tumor involvement following resection of primary breast cancer.

Epirubicin is metabolized in the liver and is excreted in bile, feces, and urine. Half-life: 12 minutes, then 3.3 hours, then 29.6 hours.

♦ Adult: 50–120 mg/m2 IV; dose is individualized.

♦ Pediatric: Safety and efficacy not established.