What it does
Anticancer medications are used to treat various types of cancer by targeting and destroying cancer cells.
Commonly used for: cancer (malignancy)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 19:44:35 · updated 2026-08-03 02:53:37
About this medicine
Anticancer medications are used to treat various types of cancer by targeting and destroying cancer cells.
What it treats
- cancer (malignancy)
How it works
These drugs work by stopping the growth of cancer cells or killing them.
Who it's for
These medications are for individuals diagnosed with cancer.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: anticancer
Anticancer drugs, also known as chemotherapeutic agents, are a diverse group of medications used to treat cancer by inhibiting the growth and proliferation of malignant cells. They can work through various mechanisms and are often used in combination to maximize therapeutic effects and minimize resistance. The choice of an anticancer drug depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and the patient's overall health.
Indications
- Various types of cancer (e.g., breast cancer, lung cancer, leukemia, lymphoma)
- Neoadjuvant therapy (to shrink tumors before surgery)
- Adjuvant therapy (to eliminate remaining cancer cells after surgery)
- Palliative treatment (to relieve symptoms of advanced cancer)
Dosage
Children: Pediatric dosages are determined based
Adults: Dosage for adults varies widely based on the specific anticancer agent used and the type of cancer being treated. Refer to specific drug guidelines for accurate dosing.
Mechanism of action
Anticancer drugs operate through several mechanisms, depending on their class. Some, like alkylating agents, directly damage DNA, preventing cancer cells from dividing. Others, such as antimetabolites, mimic natural substances within the cell, interfering with DNA and RNA synthesis. Additionally, some targeted therapies work by inhibiting specific molecules involved in tumor growth and progression, while immunotherapies enhance the body’s immune response against cancer cells.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of anticancer drugs vary widely based on their specific mechanisms. Generally, these drugs exert their effects by disrupting the cell cycle, inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death), or inhibiting angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels that supply tumors). The efficacy of these agents is often influenced by factors such as tumor heterogeneity, the presence of specific genetic mutations, and the tumor microenvironment, which can affect drug sensitivity and resistance.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of anticancer drugs involves absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Many anticancer agents are administered intravenously due to poor oral bioavailability. They are typically distributed widely in the body, including in tissues and organs. Metabolism often occurs in the liver, with various enzymes involved, leading to active or inactive metabolites. Excretion usually occurs through urine or feces, and the half-life can vary significantly between different drugs, affecting dosing schedules and treatment regimens.
Pregnancy
The use of anticancer drugs during pregnancy is generally contraindicated due to potential teratogenic effects and risks to fetal development. Some agents may be used in life-threatening situations if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast-feeding
Most anticancer agents are contraindicated during breastfeeding due to the potential for excretion in breast milk and the risk of serious adverse effects in the infant.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Specific storage conditions may vary by formulation.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.