Anti- Cancer Drug

Definition: Antineoplastic drugs describe a group of medicines that contain chemicals which are toxic to cells, preventing their replication or growth, and so are used to treat cancer.

Classification with examples: 1. Alkylating agents:

• Nitrogen mustards: E.g.: Chlorambucil, Mechlorethamine

• Ethylenimines: E.g.: Triethylenemelamine, Triethylenethiophosphamide

• Alkylsulphones: E.g. : Busulphan

2. Antimetabolites:

• Folic acid antagonists: E.g.: Methotrexate

• Purine Antagonist: E.g.: 6-mercaptopurine
• Pyrimidine Antagonist: E.g.: 5-Flurouracil, Cytosine 3. Radioactive Isotopes: E.g.: Radioiodine, Radiophosphorous 4. Antibiotics: E.g.: Actinomycin-D, Mitomycin 5. Hormones: E.g.: Androgens, Estrogens, Corticosteroids 6. Enzymes: E.g.: L-asparginase 7. Vinca alkaloids: E.g.: Vincristine, Vinblastin 8. Miscellaneous Agents: E.g.: Hydroxyurea, Cis-platin