Introduction Irinotecan is a semi-synthetic camptothecin derivative used as an antineoplastic agent, primarily in the treatment of colorectal cancer and other solid tumors. It is a prodrug that requires metabolic activation to exert its cytotoxic effects. Irinotecan interferes with DNA replication in rapidly dividing cancer cells, leading to cell death. Mechanism of Action (Step-wise) Pharmacokinetics … Read more
Introduction Etoposide is a semisynthetic podophyllotoxin derivative widely used as an antineoplastic agent in the treatment of various solid tumors and hematological malignancies. It is a cell cycle–specific drug, acting primarily during the S and G₂ phases. Etoposide is high-yield for pharmacology and oncology examinations due to its unique enzyme target, characteristic DNA damage mechanism, … Read more
Introduction Capecitabine is an oral prodrug of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) widely used in the treatment of breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and gastric cancers. Designed for tumor-selective activation, it delivers higher concentrations of active 5-FU to tumor cells while reducing systemic toxicity. The Mechanism of Action of Capecitabine centers on its stepwise conversion into 5-FU inside tumor … Read more
Introduction Bleomycin is a cytotoxic glycopeptide antibiotic used as an antineoplastic agent, especially in the treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma, testicular cancer, squamous cell carcinomas, and germ cell tumors. It is unique among chemotherapeutic agents because it causes minimal myelosuppression but is strongly associated with pulmonary toxicity. Bleomycin acts primarily during the G2 phase of the … Read more
