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Why is doxorubicin called the 'Red Devil'? What's the story behind its color?
Doxorubicin, with brand names such as Adriamycin in various places, this chemotherapy drug has become synonymous with the treatment of cancer. From breast cancer to bladder cancer, from Kaposi's sarcoma to acute lymphoblastic leukemia, doxorubicin is used in a wide range of applications. However, the story behind this red drug hides unknown dangers. Let’s take a closer look at this drug, its side effects, and why it’s called “The Red Devil.”
Mechanism of action of doxorubicin
Doxorubicin belongs to the anthracycline antibiotic family and inhibits the growth of cancer cells by interfering with the function of DNA. By interacting with DNA, it inhibits the action of topoase II, the enzyme responsible for unwinding the DNA double helix. This process makes DNA replication impossible, leading to cancer cell death.
Therapeutic uses
In the United States, doxorubicin is approved to treat a variety of cancers, including breast cancer, bladder cancer, and certain leukemias and lymphomas. It is often used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. For example, its formula AC (doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide) is widely used. However, the success of these treatments comes with numerous side effects.
Side effects and risks
"Side effects of doxorubicin are very common, including hair loss, bone marrow depression, vomiting and oral inflammation."
However, the most serious side effect is cardiotoxicity, which can lead to dilated cardiomyopathy and even heart failure. Specifically, the incidence of cardiotoxicity is related to the cumulative dose of the drug. When the dose exceeds 600mg/m², the risk of heart disease will significantly increase. Additionally, some patients may experience acute enteritis, another potentially fatal complication of doxorubicin.
Why is it called the "Red Devil"?
Doxorubicin has been nicknamed the "Red Devil" or "Red Death" due to its red appearance and potential health hazards. This not only refers to its color, but also symbolizes the risks and challenges that may arise during treatment. Many people report experiencing red urine after using the drug, which further makes them aware of the unique effects and side effects of the drug.
Historical background
The discovery of doxorubicin can be traced back to the 1950s. The Italian research company Farmitalia discovered this compound from a special soil microorganism in its efforts to find anti-cancer compounds. The success of clinical trials led to doxorubicin being officially approved to enter the U.S. market in 1974. Since then, it has become one of the standard options for cancer treatment due to its remarkable effect in inhibiting tumor growth.
New drugs and future prospects
With the progress of research and development, improved versions of doxorubicin such as liposomal doxorubicin (such as Doxil and Myocet) have emerged. These new drugs can reduce cardiotoxicity and improve safety. However, at the same time, these high-tech drugs are also accompanied by higher costs. How to strike a balance between reducing burden and improving therapeutic effect is still a difficult problem that drug developers need to face.
Doxorubicin is not only a chemotherapy drug, its red color symbolizes an important turning point in scientific research. As we gain a deeper understanding of it, it can be said that the story of doxorubicin is not only about treatment, but also the process of human exploration in the struggle against life. Along the way, how many new discoveries will be made in the future that will make us rethink the meaning and value of doxorubicin?
