Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certification ONS Practice Testq

Which type of drug typically has a continuous dosing schedule in chemotherapy?

1. Alkylating agents

2. Topoisomerase inhibitors

3. Antitumor antibiotics

4. Vinca plant alkaloids

The correct answer is: Antitumor antibiotics

In chemotherapy, antitumor antibiotics are known for often having a continuous dosing schedule. This is primarily due to their pharmacokinetic properties, which allow for a consistent level of medication in the body to effectively target cancer cells. Continuous dosing can help maintain therapeutic plasma concentrations, potentially leading to improved efficacy against tumors while minimizing the chances of the cancer developing resistance by avoiding drug holidays. Antitumor antibiotics like doxorubicin can have specific schedules where continuous infusion may be employed, especially in certain protocols that maximize treatment effectiveness while managing toxicity. Understanding the nature of the other drug classes is crucial. Alkylating agents, while effective, typically employ intermittent schedules to counteract toxicity and allow recovery of normal cells. Topoisomerase inhibitors and vinca plant alkaloids also mostly utilize bolus dosing or intermittent regimens based on their toxic profiles and the need for recovery periods between cycles. By grasping these scheduling nuances, one can appreciate the rationale behind the selection of specific treatment regimens in chemotherapy for optimal patient outcomes.