Nitrogen mustard

Nitrogen Mustard

Nitrogen Mustard (pronunciation: Nye-tro-gen Mus-tard) is a type of chemotherapy drug that is used in the treatment of certain types of cancer. The term "Nitrogen Mustard" is derived from its similarity in structure to the compounds used in mustard gas.

History

Nitrogen Mustards were first synthesized in the 1930s and were used as chemical warfare agents during World War II. Their potential as anti-cancer agents was discovered in the 1940s when it was observed that soldiers exposed to these agents had a decreased number of white blood cells.

Mechanism of Action

Nitrogen Mustards work by alkylating the DNA of cancer cells, which prevents the cells from dividing and growing. They are classified as alkylating agents.

Uses

Nitrogen Mustards are used in the treatment of a variety of cancers, including Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, leukemia, lung cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Nitrogen Mustards include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and bone marrow suppression. More serious side effects can include lung damage and secondary cancers.

Related Terms

• Chemotherapy
• Cancer
• Alkylating Agent
• White Blood Cells
• Hodgkin's Disease
• Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Lung Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Hair Loss
• Bone Marrow Suppression
• Lung Damage
• Secondary Cancer

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Nitrogen mustard
• Wikipedia's article - Nitrogen mustard

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