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Chemotherapy – Targeted Cancer Treatment

Fight cancer at the cellular level.


 

Overview of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses anticancer drugs to destroy or inhibit the growth of malignant cells. It is a cornerstone of modern oncology and may be used alone or alongside surgery, radiation, immunotherapy, or hormone therapy.

Key Facts:

  • Targets rapidly dividing cells
  • Can treat localized or metastatic cancer
  • Available in multiple delivery formats
  • Customizable based on cancer type, stage, and patient health

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How Chemotherapy Works ?

Chemotherapy drugs work by interfering with cell division and DNA replication. While cancer cells are the primary target, some healthy cells (especially fast-dividing ones) are affected too.

Mechanisms of Action:

  • 🧬 DNA Damage: Alkylating agents cross-link DNA strands, halting replication.
  • 🚫 Mitotic Inhibition: Plant alkaloids block spindle formation during mitosis.
  • 🧫 Metabolic Disruption: Antimetabolites mimic natural substances to disrupt DNA/RNA synthesis.
  • 🎯 Targeted Delivery (new generation): Drugs attack specific cancer markers.




Types of Chemotherapy Drugs

Drug Class Mechanism Examples
Alkylating Agents DNA cross-linking Cyclophosphamide
Antimetabolites Inhibit DNA/RNA synthesis Methotrexate, 5-FU
Plant Alkaloids Stop mitosis Vincristine, Paclitaxel
Antitumor Antibiotics DNA/RNA synthesis disruption Doxorubicin, Bleomycin
Monoclonal Antibodies Target specific cancer receptors Trastuzumab, Rituximab

 Types of Cancer Treated with Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is effective against both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies:


Breast cancer

Ovarian and cervical cancers

Lung cancer

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer

Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer


💉 Administration Methods

RouteDescription
Intravenous (IV)Most common, via vein or port
OralPills or capsules at home
SubcutaneousInjected under the skin
IntramuscularInto muscle tissue
IntrathecalDirectly into cerebrospinal fluid
TopicalApplied to skin cancers



Management Strategies


  • 💊 Antiemetics (e.g., ondansetron)
  • 🩸 Growth factors (e.g., filgrastim)
  • 🍲 Nutritional support
  • 😴 Psychological counseling
  • 🧘 Relaxation therapies

Side Effects & Management

Chemotherapy may cause temporary or long-term side effects, depending on the drug type, dose, and duration.


Common Side Effects 


  • Fatigue, nausea, vomiting
  • Hair loss (alopecia)
  • Anemia, neutropenia (low blood counts)
  • Mouth sores, diarrhea or constipation
  • Fertility changes
  • Cognitive effects ("chemo brain")