Folyláspontdepresszánsok

Folyláspontdepresszánsok, also known as folate antagonists, are a class of drugs that work by inhibiting the action of folic acid. Folic acid, or folate, is a B vitamin essential for cell growth and division, particularly for rapidly proliferating cells like cancer cells and microorganisms. Folyláspontdepresszánsok interfere with the metabolic pathways that require folic acid, thereby hindering DNA synthesis and cell replication.

These drugs are primarily used in chemotherapy to treat various types of cancer, including leukemias, lymphomas, and solid tumors. By blocking folate metabolism, they selectively target rapidly dividing cancer cells, slowing or stopping their growth. Examples of common folyláspontdepresszánsok used in cancer treatment include methotrexate, pemetrexed, and raltitrexed.

Beyond cancer therapy, some folyláspontdepresszánsok have applications in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions. Methotrexate, for instance, is widely used in low doses to manage rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. In these cases, the mechanism is thought to involve modulating the immune system rather than directly targeting cell proliferation.

The side effects of folyláspontdepresszánsok are often related to their impact on normal, rapidly dividing cells, such as those in the bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, and hair follicles. Common side effects can include myelosuppression (leading to anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia), mucositis, nausea, vomiting, and hair loss. Management of these side effects often involves supportive care and dose adjustments. Leucovorin rescue is a common strategy used with some folyláspontdepresszánsok, such as high-dose methotrexate, to protect healthy cells from toxicity.