Pentostatin

Definition

Pentostatin is an anticancer (antineoplastic) agent belonging to the class of drugs called antimetabolites (compounds that prevent the synthesis and utilization of normal cellular metabolite). It is a natural product isolated from Streptomyces antibioticus. It also acts as a suppressor of the immune system. It is available under the brand name Nipent. Other common names for pentostatin include 2'-deoxycoformycin and 2'DCF.

Purpose

Pentostatin is primarily used to treat a particular type of cancer of the blood called hairy cell leukemia. It is also used in the treatment of low-grade lymphomas. Clinical trials are...

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