Uridine triacetate

Uridine triacetate is a medication used to treat life-threatening toxicity caused by certain chemotherapy medications used to treat cancer. It works by helping the body to break down these medications and remove them from the body more quickly. Uridine triacetate is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion into a vein and can help prevent or reduce the severity of serious side effects caused by chemotherapy medications such as 5-fluorouracil and capecitabine.

Uridine triacetate is a prescription medication used for two main purposes:

1. Treatment of Hereditary Orotic Aciduria: This is a rare genetic disorder where the body has difficulty producing enough uridine, a necessary molecule for RNA synthesis and other cellular functions. Uridine triacetate acts as a prodrug, meaning it's converted into uridine within the body, delivering the missing uridine to compensate for the deficiency. It's sold under the brand name Xuriden for this specific use.
2. Emergency Treatment for Fluorouracil or Capecitabine Overdose/Toxicity: Fluorouracil and capecitabine are chemotherapy medications that can cause severe side effects if taken in too high a dose. Uridine triacetate works in this scenario by competing with these drugs for incorporation into cells. By taking the place of fluorouracil or capecitabine, it helps protect healthy cells from their toxic effects. It's sold under the brand name Vistogard for this purpose.

Here's a breakdown of Uridine triacetate's key aspects:

• Drug Class: Pyrimidine analog
• Mechanism of Action:
  • For Hereditary Orotic Aciduria: Provides a source of uridine to compensate for the deficiency.
  • For Fluorouracil/Capecitabine Overdose: Competes with these drugs for cellular uptake, protecting healthy cells.
• Dosage Form: Granules taken orally, mixed with soft food like applesauce or yogurt.