Cytotoxic Drugs

The alkylating agents such as cyclophosphamide act by covalently binding alkyl groups, and their major effect is to cross-link DNA strands, interfering with DNA synthesis and causing strand breaks. Despite being among the earliest cytotoxic drugs developed, they maintain a central position in the treatment of cancer. Common alkylating agents include cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil and busulfan.

Classification of Cytotoxic Drugs

Platinum compounds

Cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin cause interstrand cross-links of DNA and are often regarded as non-classical alkylating agents. They have transformed the treatment of testicular cancer and have a major role against many other tumours, including lung, ovarian and head and neck cancer. Toxicity, as for other heavy metals, includes renal and peripheral nerve damage.

Antimetabolites

DNA repair inhibitors

1. Epipodophyllotoxins
2. Cytotoxic antibiotics

Antitubulin agents

1. Vinca alkaloids
2. Taxanes

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