Chemotherapy Overview

Chemotherapy

• Cytotoxic chemotherapy agents treat cancers, leukemias, and lymphomas with over 50 available drugs.
• Administration methods include oral, intravenous (IV), and subcutaneous routes.
• Mechanisms of action involve cell death or growth inhibition, impacting microtubules, proteins, or DNA synthesis.
• Treatment can be cell cycle-dependent, arresting growth at specific phases.
• Combination therapies enhance efficacy by targeting different cell division stages.

Goals of Chemotherapy

• Curative: Aim for complete remission through induction, consolidation, and maintenance phases.
• Induction: Initial treatment to eradicate cancer.
• Consolidation: Repeated induction to prevent relapse.
• Maintenance: Long-term low-dose therapy after remission to sustain control.
• Palliative: Focus on improving comfort and quality of life for those not responding to curative therapy.

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

• Aims to destroy fast-dividing cancer cells but may also harm quickly dividing healthy cells, causing side effects.
• Common side effects include fatigue, weakness, infection susceptibility.
• Damage to mucous membranes can lead to symptoms in the mouth, throat, and stomach (e.g., nausea, vomiting).
• Withdrawal symptoms may mimic other medical issues, complicating clinical assessments.

Diabetes Mellitus

• Type 1 Diabetes: Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic cells, leading to insulin dependence.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Development of insulin resistance; many require medication alongside lifestyle changes for glucose control.
• Management includes diet, exercise, and monitoring blood glucose levels; insulin therapy is essential for Type 1 and may be necessary for Type 2.

Insulin Therapy

• Insulin is primarily administered via subcutaneous injection; inhaled forms exist but are less common.
• Oral forms of insulin are under development due to destruction by stomach acids.
• Injection methods involve small syringes with fine needles for comfort.

Antidepressants Overview

• Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): Used when SSRIs fail. Common examples include amitriptyline and imipramine. Side effects: dry mouth, constipation, potential cardiac issues.
• Tetracyclic Antidepressants: Maprotiline balances neurotransmitters for depressive symptoms; side effects include drowsiness and weakness.
• Dopamine Reuptake Blockers: Bupropion used for depression and smoking cessation; side effects include gastrointestinal upset and dizziness.
• 5-HT1A Receptor Antagonists: Vilazodone balances serotonin levels; side effects include sleep disruptions and gastrointestinal issues.
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Older class requiring careful medication interactions; examples: phenelzine, isocarboxazid.

Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulants

• Used for ADHD and narcolepsy to enhance alertness and motor activity.
• Common stimulants include amphetamines and methylphenidate; they increase catecholamine levels in the body.
• Administration methods primarily involve oral intake, but recreational use may include injections or inhalation.
• Contraindications: Advanced arteriosclerosis, severe hypertension, untreated hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or recent strokes; caution advised in young children and pregnant patients.

Parkinson's Disease

• A progressive brain disorder manifesting as gradual shaking, stiffness, and balance difficulties.
• Symptoms typically worsen over time impacting quality of life and mobility.

This quiz covers the fundamentals of chemotherapy, focusing on cytotoxic agents used in treating various cancers, leukemias, and lymphomas. Explore the mechanisms of action, drug types, and administration methods. Ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding of cancer treatment.