Front Desk: 469-391-0070
Belinostat: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained
Summary of Key Points
Belinostat is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of cancer, including peripheral T-cell lymphoma. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. This medication is typically administered through an intravenous (IV) infusion. Like all treatments, Belinostat may cause side effects, so it is important to consult your doctor before starting therapy. For personalized guidance, you can also reach out to one of our telemedicine providers.
Names of the Medication
US Brand Name: Beleodaq
Generic Name: Belinostat
The generic name refers to the official medical name of the active ingredient in the medication. It is often listed alongside the brand name for clarity.
Pharmacologic Category
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors (HDAC inhibitors)
Belinostat Dosage
Belinostat is prescribed for the treatment of various cancers. The specific dosing schedule depends on the type of cancer being treated. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your prescribed dose. If you need additional support, our telemedicine providers are available to assist you.
Peripheral T-cell Lymphoma (PTCL)
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL)
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
Lymphoma
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
Multiple Myeloma
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
T-cell Leukemia
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
T-cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma
Recommended Dose: 1,000 mg/m²
Frequency: Once daily on Days 1-5 of a 21-day cycle
Length of Treatment: Continue until the disease progresses or side effects become intolerable
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Intravenous (IV) Infusion: 500 mg powder for injection
Administration Instructions
Belinostat is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion, which delivers the medication directly into the bloodstream through a vein. Each infusion typically takes about 30 minutes. It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and attend all scheduled treatments. If you experience any side effects or have concerns, contact your doctor promptly. For additional support, you can also consult one of our telemedicine providers.
Contraindications for Belinostat Treatment
A contraindication refers to a specific condition or circumstance in which using a particular medication could be harmful. If you have any of the following conditions, you should avoid taking Belinostat unless your healthcare provider determines that the potential benefits outweigh the associated risks.
Severe liver impairment: Belinostat is processed by the liver, and impaired liver function can hinder the body’s ability to metabolize the drug properly. This may increase the likelihood of side effects or toxicity.
Allergic reaction to Belinostat or its ingredients: If you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to Belinostat or any of its components, taking it again could trigger a severe or even life-threatening reaction.
Pregnancy: Belinostat can harm an unborn baby and is contraindicated during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. More information is provided in the pregnancy section below.
Severe kidney impairment: While Belinostat is primarily metabolized by the liver, individuals with severe kidney disease may have difficulty eliminating the drug from their system, which could lead to toxic buildup.
Drug-to-Drug Interactions with Belinostat
Belinostat can interact with other medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Below are some known drug interactions:
- Warfarin (Coumadin): Belinostat may enhance the effects of warfarin, a blood thinner, which could increase the risk of bleeding.
- Ketoconazole (Nizoral): This antifungal medication can raise the levels of Belinostat in your bloodstream, increasing the likelihood of side effects.
- Phenytoin (Dilantin): This anti-seizure medication may reduce the effectiveness of Belinostat by speeding up its breakdown in the body.
- Carbamazepine (Tegretol): Another anti-seizure drug that can decrease Belinostat’s efficacy by accelerating its metabolism.
- Rifampin (Rifadin): This antibiotic may lower the levels of Belinostat in your blood, reducing its therapeutic effect.
Belinostat and Pregnancy
Is it Safe to Take Belinostat During Pregnancy?
Belinostat is not considered safe for use during pregnancy. It can harm an unborn baby, potentially leading to birth defects or miscarriage. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider right away. In such cases, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments. If Belinostat is deemed absolutely necessary, your healthcare provider will carefully discuss the potential risks and benefits with you.
Belinostat While Breastfeeding
Is it Safe to Take Belinostat While Breastfeeding?
Taking Belinostat while breastfeeding is not recommended. Although it is not yet known whether Belinostat passes into breast milk, the possibility of serious side effects in a nursing infant makes it important to exercise caution. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, consult your healthcare provider to explore alternative treatments or feeding options.
Estimated Cost of Belinostat Treatment
The cost of a 30-day supply of Belinostat without insurance can be substantial. Using a GoodRx coupon, the estimated price ranges from $12,000 to $15,000. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location. To secure the best price, consider checking with your local pharmacy or using a prescription discount service.
Possible Alternatives to Belinostat Treatment
If Belinostat is not the right option for you, there are several alternative treatments available for the conditions it is designed to address. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. For tailored advice, you can also connect with one of our telemedicine providers.
Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma
Alternative treatments may include chemotherapy regimens such as CHOP (Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone), Pralatrexate (Folotyn), or stem cell transplantation.
Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
Options for treatment can involve topical steroids, phototherapy, or systemic therapies like Bexarotene (Targretin) or Methotrexate.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Common alternatives include Rituximab (Rituxan), chemotherapy regimens such as R-CHOP, or targeted therapies like Ibrutinib (Imbruvica).
Lymphoma
Treatment options depend on the specific type of lymphoma and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy, such as Pembrolizumab (Keytruda).
Hodgkin Lymphoma
The ABVD regimen (Adriamycin, Bleomycin, Vinblastine, and Dacarbazine) is a widely used chemotherapy protocol, often combined with radiation therapy for enhanced effectiveness.
Multiple Myeloma
Alternative treatments include Bortezomib (Velcade), Lenalidomide (Revlimid), or stem cell transplantation, depending on the stage and progression of the disease.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Standard treatment options typically involve chemotherapy with Cytarabine and Daunorubicin or targeted therapies such as Midostaurin (Rydapt).
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Common alternatives include targeted therapies like Ibrutinib (Imbruvica) and Venetoclax (Venclexta), among others.
T-Cell Leukemia
Treatment options may include chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, or targeted therapies such as Alemtuzumab (Campath).
T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma
Chemotherapy regimens like Hyper-CVAD (Cyclophosphamide, Vincristine, Doxorubicin, and Dexamethasone) are frequently used, often in combination with stem cell transplantation.
Recent Updates on Belinostat Research
Ongoing research into Belinostat continues to explore its potential when combined with other therapies for treating various T-cell lymphomas. Clinical trials are investigating whether pairing Belinostat with checkpoint inhibitors or additional chemotherapy agents can improve outcomes for patients with relapsed or refractory lymphoma. Additionally, researchers are studying genetic markers to identify which patients are most likely to benefit from Belinostat treatment.
As these studies advance, new findings may broaden the applications of Belinostat or refine existing treatment protocols. Staying informed about these developments is vital, and our telemedicine providers are available to discuss any updates that could influence your treatment plan.
