Recent advances in cancer therapy
Mercado, I.; Baez, L.; Caceres, W.
Boletin de la Asociacion Medica de Puerto Rico 89(7-9): 120-126
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-4849 PMID: 9419930 Document Number: 702765
The treatment of cancer has developed substantially from its conception in the first years of the 20th century. Since the introduction of alkylating agents during second World War, the oncology specialty has markedly grown. In the recent years, new drugs have been approved for the treatment of cancer. Such examples include the taxanes (Docetaxel and Paclitaxel), Vinorelbine, Irinotecan, Topotecan, Gemcitabine and Gliadel. We will discuss these new chemotherapuetic agents, their pharmacology, indications, toxicity and appropriate dosing. There is no doubt that further clinical research is needed to determine the optimal use of these agents.