Przeciwnowotworowe

Przeciwnowotworowe, also known as antineoplastic or anticancer agents, are medications used to treat cancer. They work by interfering with the growth and division of cancer cells, thereby slowing or stopping the cancer's progression. These drugs can be categorized into several groups based on their mechanism of action, including alkylating agents, antimetabolites, plant alkaloids, hormonal agents, and targeted therapies.

Alkylating agents, such as cyclophosphamide and cisplatin, damage DNA by adding alkyl groups, which can interfere with DNA replication and transcription. Antimetabolites, like methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil, mimic natural substances that cells need to grow, but they do so in a way that inhibits cell division. Plant alkaloids, such as vincristine and vinblastine, disrupt the microtubule structure, which is essential for cell division.

Hormonal agents target specific hormones that stimulate cancer cell growth. For example, tamoxifen is used to treat estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer by blocking estrogen receptors. Targeted therapies, such as imatinib, are designed to inhibit specific proteins that are involved in cancer cell growth and survival.

Przeciwnowotworowe are typically administered in combination with other treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy, to maximize their effectiveness. However, they can also have significant side effects, including nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and increased risk of secondary cancers. Therefore, their use is carefully monitored and managed by healthcare professionals.