Different Classes of Chemotherapy Drugs

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	Different Classes of Chemotherapy Drugs

What are the different classes of chemotherapy (chemo) drugs used to treat breast cancer?

There are many classes of chemotherapy drugs (chemotherapeutics) used to treat breast cancer, including (but not limited to):

• Alkylating agents
• Anti-metabolites
• Anthracyclines
• Bisphosphonates
• Fluoropyrimidines
• Platinum drugs
• Taxanes
• Vinca alkaloids

Moreover, the following types of medications also are used to treat breast cancer:

• Anti-hormonal drugs:
— Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), such
as tamoxifen
— Aromatase inhibitors
— Anti-estrogen drugs
— GnRH agonists (also called LHRH agonists)

• Biological therapeutics (such as the monoclonal antibody,
Herceptin)

For further information, see our Q&As on each class of chemotherapy drugs, anti-hormonal drug, and biological therapeutic.

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