title: Antimetabolites and cytotoxic drugs.
abstract: Mycophenolic mofetil, azathioprine, thioguanine, methotrexate, and cyclophosphamide were initially used for the treatment of malignancies. Because of their immunosuppressive activity, the range of diseases responsive to these medications has expanded to include various autoimmune-related diseases. Discussion includes a historical perspective of each medication, recent updates on responsive dermatologic conditions, dosages, monitoring guidelines, and medication expense.
authors.affiliation: Section of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA.
authors.forename: N G
authors.initials: NG
authors.lastname: Silvis
mesh_terms: D000963:Antimetabolites / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016903:Drug Monitoring; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D000963:Antimetabolites; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents