Mafosfamide

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Mafosfamide[edit | edit source]

Chemical structure of Mafosfamide

Mafosfamide is a chemotherapy agent belonging to the class of oxazaphosphorine compounds. It is a derivative of cyclophosphamide, designed to be a more stable and water-soluble form of the drug. Mafosfamide is used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including leukemia and lymphoma.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Mafosfamide functions as an alkylating agent, which means it works by adding an alkyl group to the DNA of cancer cells. This process leads to the formation of cross-links between DNA strands, ultimately inhibiting DNA replication and transcription. The disruption of these critical cellular processes results in the death of rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]

Mafosfamide is administered intravenously and is rapidly converted in the body to its active form, 4-hydroxycyclophosphamide. This conversion is facilitated by the liver enzyme cytochrome P450. The active metabolites of mafosfamide are responsible for its therapeutic effects as well as its side effects.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

Mafosfamide is primarily used in the treatment of hematological malignancies such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is often used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents to enhance its efficacy. The drug is also being investigated for its potential use in bone marrow transplantation protocols.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like many chemotherapy drugs, mafosfamide can cause a range of side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, myelosuppression, and alopecia. More severe side effects can include hemorrhagic cystitis and cardiotoxicity. Patients receiving mafosfamide are closely monitored for these adverse effects.

Research and Development[edit | edit source]

Research is ongoing to improve the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of mafosfamide. Studies are exploring its use in combination with newer targeted therapies and its role in personalized medicine approaches for cancer treatment.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD