Doxil Uses

Ovarian cancer, multiple myeloma, and AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma are the conditions that can be treated with Doxil, a chemotherapy drug. In some cases, the medication may also be prescribed to treat other types of cancer; however, it is not approved for these uses. Doxil has not been studied adequately in children. Therefore, it is only licensed for people over the age of 18.

What Is Doxil Used For?

Doxil® (liposomal doxorubicin) is a prescription chemotherapy medication approved to treat the following conditions:
 

Using Doxil for Kaposi's Sarcoma

Kaposi's sarcoma is a type of cancer that typically affects the skin. Some cases may be mild and may affect the skin only, but other cases can be widespread and may affect other organs as well. In the United States, Kaposi's sarcoma is most commonly seen in people with AIDS, although in other parts of the world, it is seen in people without AIDS.
 
Kaposi's sarcoma is an AIDS-defining illness. This means that anyone who is HIV-positive and develops Kaposi's sarcoma is automatically given a diagnosis of AIDS, since the cancer is a good indication that the immune system is functioning poorly.
 
Doxil is used to treat AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma in cases where the cancer has progressed despite prior treatment with combination chemotherapy (chemotherapy involving two or more different medications) or for individuals who are intolerant of such combination chemotherapy options.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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