Semustine
Definition
Semustine, also known as methyl-CCNU, is one of a group of antineoplastic (antitumor) drugs known as alkylating agents. As of mid-2001, it is an investigational drug.
Purpose
Semustine has been used in the treatment of brain tumors, lymphomas, colorectal cancer, and stomach cancer. It is not clearly superior to other treatments for these diseases. It has also been associated with an increased risk of secondary (that is, treatment-related) leukemia. Thus, semustine is not widely used in the U.S.
Description
Like many antineoplastic (antitumor) therapies, semustine acts by killing quickly growing cells. Since cancerous...
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