Doxorubicin: Insights into Dynamics, Clinical Uses and Adverse Effects

Abstract

Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the anthracycline antibiotics that is used frequently for treatment of various types of malignancies including lung, breast and testicular cancers. DOX reacts with DNA by intercalation and inhibits the synthesis of DNA macromolecular components. Also, it may increase the production of free radicals which may contribute to its cytotoxicity. DOX may cause serious adverse effects including cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and testicular toxicity. So, it has become increasingly important to find pharmacological remedies to protect against these serious adverse effects. This mini-review sheds light on DOX including its history, dynamics, clinical uses and adverse effects.