OCC Pharmacology of Chemotherapeutic Agents 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which class of chemotherapeutic agents is known to cause cardiotoxicity as a major side effect?
- Alkylating agents
- Antimetabolites
- Anthracyclines (Correct answer)
- Topoisomerase inhibitors
Correct answer: Anthracyclines
Anthracyclines, such as doxorubicin, are known for their effectiveness but also for their potential to cause dose-dependent cardiotoxicity.
Question 2: Which chemotherapeutic drug is associated with hemorrhagic cystitis?
- Methotrexate
- Cyclophosphamide (Correct answer)
- Cisplatin
- Fluorouracil
Correct answer: Cyclophosphamide
Cyclophosphamide can cause hemorrhagic cystitis due to the toxic metabolite acrolein. Adequate hydration and mesna are used for prevention.
Question 3: What is the primary mechanism of action of antimetabolites in chemotherapy?
- Disrupt microtubule formation
- Cause DNA cross-linking
- Mimic nucleotides to inhibit DNA synthesis (Correct answer)
- Inhibit angiogenesis
Correct answer: Mimic nucleotides to inhibit DNA synthesis
Antimetabolites interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis by mimicking normal substrates, ultimately inhibiting cell replication.
Question 4: Why is mesna co-administered with ifosfamide or cyclophosphamide?
- To reduce nausea and vomiting
- To enhance cytotoxic effects
- To prevent cardiotoxicity
- To protect the bladder from toxicity (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To protect the bladder from toxicity
Mesna binds to and inactivates acrolein, a toxic byproduct that causes hemorrhagic cystitis, protecting the bladder lining.
Question 5: Which chemotherapeutic agent is commonly linked with nephrotoxicity requiring pre- and post-hydration protocols?
- Vincristine
- Cisplatin (Correct answer)
- Etoposide
- Paclitaxel
Correct answer: Cisplatin
Cisplatin is nephrotoxic and necessitates aggressive IV hydration to prevent renal damage.
Question 6: What is the primary dose-limiting toxicity of vincristine?
- Myelosuppression
- Cardiotoxicity
- Neurotoxicity (Correct answer)
- Nephrotoxicity
Correct answer: Neurotoxicity
Vincristine is associated with neurotoxicity, particularly peripheral neuropathy, which often limits its use.
OCC Pharmacology of Chemotherapeutic Agents 1
Which class of chemotherapeutic agents is known to cause cardiotoxicity as a major side effect?