Cytoprotective agents used in the treatment of patients with cancer.
OBJECTIVE
To provide a review of the literature of commonly prescribed cytoprotective agents used in the treatment of patients with cancer.


METHODS
Journal articles, research reports, review articles, and web sites.


CONCLUSIONS
Multiple agents have been theorized to have cytoprotective properties. Significant evidence exists supporting the use of some cytoprotective agents approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). More research is needed to determine the efficacy of new cytoprotective agents and expanded indications for those agents currently used.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge of the indications for and side effect profiles of cytoprotective agents is a necessary component of oncology nursing care. Familiarity with evidence-based research that supports or refutes the use of FDA-approved cytoprotective agents or alternative agents is helpful when suggesting, prescribing, or administering such agents.
Hogle
William P
WP
UPMC Passavant Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. Hoglewp@ph.upmc.edu
D004999:Amifostine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D019610:Cytoprotection; D005346:Fibroblast Growth Factors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005973:Glutamine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D015080:Mesna / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing / Q000473:pathology; D011929:Razoxane / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D005973:Glutamine; D011929:Razoxane; D005346:Fibroblast Growth Factors; D004999:Amifostine; D015080:Mesna