Anthracyclines

Anthracyclines treat a variety of cancers and work by forming free radicals to damage cancer cells.  The free radicals break DNA, oxidize DNA components and promote membrane peroxidation of lipids.  Cardiotoxicity is a known and frequently tested adverse effect.

Class Drugs

• Daunorubicin

• Doxorubicin

• Idarubicin

• Epirubicin

• Mitoxantrone

Class Mechanism of Action

Cytotoxic due to production of free radicals

• Breaks DNA

• Oxidation of DNA components

• Membrane peroxidation of lipids

Class Applications

• See individual drugs

Class Adverse Effects

Cardiotoxicity

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Daunorubicin	Leukemia		"Dawn" "Ruby"
Doxorubicin	Leukemia, lymphomaSarcomasLung and breast cancer		"Doxen" "Ruby"
Idarubicin	Leukemia		"Idaho" "Ruby"
Epirubicin	Breast cancer with lymph node involvement		"EpiPen" "Ruby"
Mitoxantrone	Prostate cancer		"Mite" "Toxic Symbol" "Ant"