Mustine
Mustine, also known as mechlorethamine or HN2, is a chemotherapy agent used in the treatment of various types of cancer. It is classified as a nitrogen mustard alkylating agent and was one of the first chemotherapy drugs developed. Mustine is primarily used to treat Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and certain types of leukemia.
History[edit | edit source]
Mustine was developed during World War II as part of research into chemical warfare agents. It was discovered that nitrogen mustards had the ability to suppress the growth of rapidly dividing cells, leading to their use in cancer treatment. The first clinical trials of mustine as a cancer treatment were conducted in the 1940s, marking the beginning of modern chemotherapy.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Mustine works by cross-linking DNA strands, which prevents the DNA from being replicated and transcribed. This action is particularly effective against rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells. The drug forms covalent bonds with the DNA, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.
Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]
Mustine is administered intravenously due to its instability in the gastrointestinal tract. It is rapidly distributed throughout the body and has a short half-life of approximately 15 minutes. The drug is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily through the kidneys.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of mustine include nausea, vomiting, myelosuppression (decreased production of blood cells), and alopecia (hair loss). Due to its toxic nature, mustine can also cause severe tissue damage if it leaks outside of the veins during administration.
Clinical Use[edit | edit source]
Mustine is used in combination with other chemotherapy agents in regimens such as the MOPP protocol (Mustine, Oncovin, Procarbazine, and Prednisone) for the treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma. It is also used in the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and certain leukemias.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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