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Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor

Givinostat

Brand names: Duvyzat

Givinostat is an oral histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor used in the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits histone deacetylase enzymes, modulating gene expression to reduce muscle inflammation, necrosis and fibrosis associated with dystrophin deficiency.

Prescribing in practice

  • It can prolong the QT interval and cause thrombocytopenia, so baseline and periodic ECG and platelet counts are required with dose adjustment as needed.
  • Treatment is initiated and supervised by specialists in neuromuscular disorders.
  • Gastrointestinal effects, hypertriglyceridaemia and reductions in blood counts can occur and may require dose modification.

Monitoring

Monitor full blood count (especially platelets), triglycerides and ECG (QT interval) at baseline and periodically.

Counselling the patient

  • Attend all blood tests and heart tracings as scheduled.
  • Report palpitations, fainting, unusual bruising or bleeding promptly.
  • Do not change or stop the medicine without specialist advice.

Evidence & guidelines

Benefit in Duchenne muscular dystrophy was supported by the EPIDYS randomised placebo-controlled trial.

Reference: SmPC; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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