Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certification ONS Practice Testq

Which of the following drugs is classified as a platinum-based chemotherapy?

1. Fluorouracil

2. Cisplatin

3. Floxuridine

4. Cyclophosphamide

The correct answer is: Cisplatin

Cisplatin is classified as a platinum-based chemotherapy drug. Platinum-based agents, including cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin, are particularly effective in treating various types of cancers, such as testicular, ovarian, bladder, and lung cancers. These drugs work by forming DNA cross-links in cancer cells, which interferes with their ability to divide and grow, ultimately leading to cell death. Cisplatin specifically has a well-documented mechanism of action involving the interaction with the DNA of rapidly dividing cells. This property allows it to effectively target cancer cells, making it a cornerstone of many treatment regimens. In contrast, the other options listed do not belong to the platinum-based classification. Fluorouracil and floxuridine are antimetabolites that interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis, while cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent that adds alkyl groups to DNA. These differences in mechanisms and classifications highlight why cisplatin stands out as a platinum-based chemotherapy agent.