Pharmacology of ifosfamide.

Abstract

Ifosfamide is a bifunctional alkylating agent, used as a racemic mixture by intravenous route in the treatment of various tumors. It is an oxazaphosphorine derivative with a structural formula similar to that of cyclophosphamide. As a prodrug it requires activation in the liver by a cytochrome mixed-function oxidase system. Among various metabolites, ifosforamide mustard probably represents the most important cytotoxic compound able to produce irreparable cross-links between DNA strands. Resistance is due to the ability of neoplastic cells to repair DNA damages. Acrolein may induce hemorrhagic cystitis, whereas chloroacetaldehyde may be responsible both for nephro- and neurotoxicity. A thiol donor (mesna) can prevent urotoxic effects but not nephro- and neurotoxicity. Pharmacokinetics is markedly influenced by route of administration and duration of treatment, age, co-medication, liver and renal function.

• Authors: M Furlanut, L Franceschi
• Journal: Oncology (Oncology) Vol. 65 Suppl 2 Pg. 2-6 ( 2003) ISSN: 0030-2414 [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 14586139 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel

Chemical References

• Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating
• Ifosfamide

Topics

• Animals
• Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating (adverse effects, chemistry, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology)
• Humans
• Ifosfamide (adverse effects, chemistry, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology)