Oral Chemotherapeutic Agents: Understanding Mechanisms of Action and Drug Interactions

Purpose: The mechanisms of action and drug interactions of oral chemotherapeutic agents are reviewed.

Summary: The mechanisms of action, indications, and potential for drug interactions vary for oral chemotherapy. Traditional oral chemotherapy agents cause damage to cancer cells by non-specifically interfering with cellular division. Many of the newer agents have novel targets on cancer cells preferentially, resulting in a different spectrum of toxicity. Since cancer patients are at high risk for drug interactions, usually because of age-related organ dysfunction and the need for concomitant drug therapy for comorbid conditions, understanding these agents and potential for interactions is imperative for all healthcare providers.

Conclusion: Knowledge of the mechanisms and metabolic pathways for the oral chemotherapeutic agents allows the potential to predict possible drug interactions and response while minimizing the risk of adverse outcomes.