CHOP (chemotherapy)

CHOP is a chemotherapy regimen for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) consisting of four drugs: Cyclophosphamide, Hydroxydaunorubicin, Oncovin, and Prednisone. The regimen has been in use since the 1970s.

Overview

CHOP is used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The regimen is given in cycles, with each cycle typically lasting three weeks. Patients usually receive six to eight cycles.

Components

The CHOP chemotherapy regimen consists of the following drugs:

• Cyclophosphamide: An alkylating agent that prevents cell division by cross-linking DNA strands and decreasing DNA synthesis.
• Hydroxydaunorubicin (also known as Doxorubicin): An anthracycline that intercalates DNA, inhibits topoisomerase II, and creates free radicals.
• Oncovin (also known as Vincristine): A vinca alkaloid that inhibits mitosis by binding to tubulin.
• Prednisone: A corticosteroid that induces apoptosis in lymphocytes.

Side Effects

Like all chemotherapy regimens, CHOP has potential side effects, including nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and fatigue. More serious side effects can include cardiotoxicity and neutropenia.

See Also

• R-CHOP
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Chemotherapy

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