Cancer cells are rapidly growing cells that multiply uncontrollably to form tumors. Cancer cells do not know when to stop dividing and don't have the capability to correct errors as easily as regular cells. Chemotherapy keys on these weaknesses to damage the cancer cell at various stages of its life cycle. Types of chemotherapy used for the treatment of breast cancer vary widely. Typically these medications are used in combinations to affect as many cancer cells as possible.
Anthracyclines
Anthracycline chemotherapies are commonly used for breast cancer treatment, according to the "Core Curriculum of Oncology Nursing." Anthracyclines used for breast cancer include doxorubicin, epirubicin, Doxil, and daunorubicin. Anthracyclines work in three ways. They prevent cells from replicating by blocking DNA from forming chains, relaxing tightly coiled DNA strands, and damaging the cancer cell's outer membrane.
Alkylating Agents
The "Core Curriculum for Oncology Nursing" states that alkylating agents attack cancer cells by interfering with the pairing of DNA strands. By incorrectly pairing DNA strands, these chemotherapies prevent the cells from replicating and dividing. Commonly used alkylating agents include carboplatin, cisplatin, and cyclophosphamide.
Taxanes
The American Cancer Society lists Taxol, Taxotere, and Abraxane as chemotherapies commonly used to treat breast cancer. These medications are called taxanes and they destroy cells by damaging a parts of the cell called microtubules. Microtubules are necessary for cells to divide. Without the capability to divide cancer cells will die.
Vinca Alkaloids
Vinca alkaloids work in similar ways to the taxanes to prevent cell division. Both were originally made from plants but are now made synthetically. Vinorelbine is the most commonly used vinca alkaloid for breast cancer. It is usually used for advanced cancer.
Antimetabolites
Methotrexate, fluorouracil, and Gemzar are three antimetabolites used in the treatment of breast cancer. These medications work to stop cell growth and division. Methotrexate and fluorouracil may be used in combinations with other medications for first time treatment. Gemzar is typically used for advanced stages of breast cancer.
References
- "Core Cirriculum for Oncology Nursing"; Joanne, Itano PhD.; Karen Taoka; 2005.
- American Cancer Society: Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer
