Category: Pharmacology

Introduction and Overview Targeted therapies have transformed the therapeutic landscape of oncology by enabling precise modulation of molecular pathways that drive malignant transformation and progression. Unlike conventional cytotoxic agents, which indiscriminately affect rapidly dividing cells, targeted drugs are designed to interfere with specific oncogenic proteins, signaling cascades, or tumor microenvironment components. This selectivity has led…

Introduction / Overview Brief Introduction to the Topic In the field of antineoplastic therapy, two broad classes of agents remain central to the management of solid and hematologic malignancies: microtubule inhibitors and cytotoxic antibiotics. These agents exploit fundamental differences between rapidly dividing cancer cells and normal tissues, thereby inducing cell death through distinct mechanisms of…

Introduction/Overview Antimetabolites constitute a pivotal class of cytotoxic agents in oncology, functioning principally by interfering with nucleotide synthesis and DNA replication. Their therapeutic utility spans a broad spectrum of malignancies, including hematologic cancers, solid tumors, and metastatic disease. Understanding the pharmacological nuances of these agents is essential for optimizing treatment regimens, anticipating toxicities, and tailoring…

1. Introduction/Overview Alkylating agents constitute a foundational class of cytotoxic drugs employed in the management of a wide spectrum of malignant neoplasms. Their capacity to disrupt DNA integrity renders them effective against rapidly proliferating cells; however, the lack of absolute tumor selectivity necessitates careful therapeutic monitoring. The clinical relevance of these agents remains pronounced, particularly…

Introduction / Overview Brief Introduction Parasitic infections represent a significant global health burden, affecting millions of individuals across diverse geographic regions. Anti‑amoebic drugs target protozoan pathogens such as Entamoeba histolytica and Naegleria fowleri, whereas anthelmintics are employed against helminthic parasites including nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes. The therapeutic success of these agents depends on a comprehensive…

Introduction/Overview Malaria remains a global health burden, with hundreds of millions of cases annually and significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in sub‑Saharan Africa and parts of Asia. Antimalarial chemotherapy constitutes the cornerstone of both prophylaxis and treatment strategies, and a nuanced understanding of the pharmacology of these agents is essential for practitioners in medicine and…

Introduction / Overview Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a global health challenge, necessitating sophisticated pharmacologic interventions to suppress viral replication and preserve immune function. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed HIV from a fatal disease into a manageable chronic condition. The therapeutic strategy relies on multiple drug classes that target distinct stages of the viral life…

Introduction/Overview Antiviral chemotherapy encompasses the use of pharmacologic agents designed to inhibit viral replication, attenuate disease severity, and prevent transmission. These agents are pivotal in the management of acute viral infections, chronic viral diseases, and in prophylaxis for high-risk populations. The clinical relevance of antivirals has expanded markedly with the emergence of novel viral pathogens…

Introduction / Overview Fungal infections pose a significant therapeutic challenge, particularly in immunocompromised populations such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients, patients with advanced malignancies, and individuals with prolonged neutropenia. Antifungal chemotherapy constitutes a critical component of modern infectious disease management, offering targeted eradication of pathogenic fungi while attempting to minimize host toxicity. Contemporary practice…

Introduction / Overview Leprosy, or Hansen’s disease, remains a significant public health concern in many low‑income regions. The disease is caused by the slow‑growing, obligate intracellular bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, which preferentially infects peripheral nerves and the skin. Multidrug therapy (MDT) constitutes the cornerstone of disease control, reducing transmission, preventing relapse, and mitigating the risk of…