Ftorafur is a pharmaceutical drug that belongs to the class of antineoplastic agents, commonly known as chemotherapy drugs. It is an orally administered prodrug that is metabolized in the body to its active form, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Ftorafur is typically prescribed for the treatment of various cancers, including colorectal, breast, stomach, pancreatic, and ovarian cancers.
The mechanism of action of ftorafur involves the inhibition of thymidylate synthase, an enzyme that is crucial for the synthesis of DNA. By inhibiting this enzyme, ftorafur disrupts DNA replication and subsequently slows down the growth and division of cancer cells. It also incorporates itself into the RNA and DNA strands, leading to further interference with the cancer cells' ability to replicate.
Ftorafur is usually prescribed as part of combination therapy, where it is used in conjunction with other chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy to enhance its effectiveness. It can be administered in different dosage forms, including tablets and capsules. The appropriate dose and treatment schedule depend on various factors such as the type and stage of cancer, patient's overall health, and other medications being used.
Like other chemotherapy drugs, ftorafur can produce a range of adverse effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, bone marrow suppression leading to decreased blood cell counts, hair loss, and hand-foot syndrome. Regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function is important during ftorafur therapy.
Overall, ftorafur is an important chemotherapy drug used for the treatment of various cancers, aiming to inhibit cancer cell growth and improve patient outcomes.
