Antitumour antibiotics (also called Anthracyclines) interfere with RNA and DNA synthesis. Most drugs are cell cycle non-specific. Major toxicities occur in the haematopoietic, gastrointestinal, cardiac and reproductive systems. Cardiac toxicity may be manifested as acute changes in the electrocardiograph (ECG) and arrhythmias. Individuals with preexisting heart disease are most at risk.12 Examples include Bleomycin, Daunorubicin, and Doxorubicin.1, 7, 11
Learning activity
Choose one anthracycline and discuss its:
- Indications in cancer control.
- Mechanism of action.
- Adverse effects.
- Administration considerations.