PTP 546 Module 8 Pharmacology of Cancer Jayne Hansche Lobert, MS, RN, ACNS-BC, NP 1Lobert

Pharmacology of Cancer Antineoplastic Agents Many types because want to kill cancer at several different stages. Want biggest cell kill from smallest side effects – Alkylating Agents Ex: Cylcophosphamide (Cytoxan) – Antimetabolites Ex: Methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall) – Antibiotics Ex: Doxorubicin (Adriamycin) – Plant Alkaloids Ex: Vincristine (Oncovin) – Hormones/Hormone Antagonists Ex: Dexamethasone (Decadron)/Tamoxifen (Tamofen) – Biologic Response Modifiers Ex: Interferons, Interleukin-2, Monoclonal antibodies (MAB’s) 2Lobert

Pharmacology of Cancer Antineoplastic Agents – Action: limit excessive growth and proliferation of cancer cells by impairing DNA synthesis and function or by directly limiting cell division; both cell cycle specific and non-specific – Therapeutic Effect: treatment of solid tumors, lymphomas, leukemias – Side Effects: hair loss, gi disorders such as nausea, vomiting, anorexia & stomatitis, blood disorders such as anemia with profound fatigue, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia=bleeding, bruising), profound fatigue, cns disorders such as convulsions, ataxia & peripheral neuropathies=can’t feel anything, 3Lobert