Antimetabolites Antimetabolites are a class of drugs that work by interfering with the metabolism of cancer cells. They can inhibit various biochemical proc...
Antimetabolites
Antimetabolites are a class of drugs that work by interfering with the metabolism of cancer cells. They can inhibit various biochemical processes involved in cell growth, division, and survival. This can lead to cell death and the inhibition of tumor growth.
Antimetabolites can be used as chemotherapy drugs, which are medications used to treat cancer. They are often used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents to improve the effectiveness of treatment. Antimetabolites can also be used in combination with immunotherapy to help activate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Examples of antimetabolites:
Pyrimidine analogues: These drugs, such as fluorouracil and cytarabine, inhibit the synthesis of DNA.
Pyrimidine nucleotide analogues: These drugs, such as 5-fluorouracil and gemcitabine, inhibit the synthesis of RNA.
Antioxidants: These drugs, such as vitamin C and glutathione, help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Bisphosphonates: These drugs, such as pamidronate and raloxifene, inhibit the activity of an enzyme called hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD). This enzyme is involved in the metabolism of various hormones and drugs.
Corticosteroids: These drugs, such as prednisone, are used to suppress the immune system and prevent the growth of tumors