Tepadina (Thiotepa) for bladder cancer

Overview
Tepadina is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of superficial papillary carcinoma of the urinary bladder, a form of bladder cancer. This treatment is typically used for individuals with localized bladder cancer that has not invaded deeper layers of the bladder wall. Tepadina is also known by its drug name, thiotepa.

Thiotepa belongs to a class of drugs called alkylating agents, a type of chemotherapy. It works by interfering with the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from multiplying and spreading. This action helps control the growth of bladder tumors.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Tepadina is administered directly into the bladder (intravesical use) through a catheter. The recommended dose is dissolved in a sodium chloride injection. This solution is introduced into the bladder, typically under the guidance of a health care provider. The drug should be administered exactly as prescribed by your health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Tepadina include neutropenia (low levels of a type of white blood cell, increasing infection risk), anemia (low red blood cell count, causing fatigue or weakness), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count, increasing bleeding risk), elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT, a liver enzyme), elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST, another liver enzyme), elevated bilirubin (a substance that causes yellowing of skin or eyes), mucositis (inflammation of the mouth or digestive tract lining), cytomegalovirus infection (a viral infection that can cause fever and fatigue), hemorrhage (bleeding), diarrhea, hematuria (blood in urine), and rash.

Rare but serious side effects of Tepadina include severe myelosuppression (reduction in bone marrow function, leading to dangerously low blood cell levels), carcinogenicity (potential to cause cancer), and cutaneous toxicity (skin damage, including rash or irritation). Additionally, Tepadina can cause embryo-fetal toxicity (potential harm to an unborn child) and should not be used during pregnancy.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Tepadina — Thiotepa Injection, Powder, for Solution — DailyMed