doxorubicinepirubicin

Doxorubicin, also known as adriamycin, is a widely used anthracycline antibiotic derived from Streptomyces peucetius var. caesius. It is a potent cytotoxic agent that inhibits topoisomerase II, an enzyme involved in DNA replication and transcription. Doxorubicin is commonly used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, and lung cancers, as well as certain types of leukemia. It works by intercalating between the base pairs of DNA, preventing the separation of the two strands during replication, which ultimately leads to cell death.

Doxorubicin is administered intravenously and has a relatively short half-life, requiring frequent dosing. It is known for its high efficacy but also for its significant side effects, including cumulative cardiotoxicity, which can lead to heart failure. Other common side effects include myelosuppression, nausea, vomiting, and alopecia. Due to its potential for cardiotoxicity, doxorubicin is often used in combination with other drugs to reduce the risk of heart damage.

The drug was first isolated in 1969 and has since been a cornerstone in cancer chemotherapy. Its mechanism of action and clinical efficacy have been extensively studied, leading to its widespread use in oncology. However, ongoing research continues to explore ways to mitigate its side effects and improve its therapeutic index.