Evaluating the role of dexrazoxane as a cardioprotectant in cancer patients receiving anthracyclines

Anthracyclines remain an important group of chemotherapeutic agents, despite their inherent cardiotoxicity. This cardiotoxicity may be even more of a concern in the future, as combination therapies of anthracyclines with newer agents become routine. Such combinations may be highly effective, but cardiotoxicity may also be increased. Dexrazoxane reduces the incidence of cardiotoxicity, as demonstrated in numerous clinical trials in both adults and children. Evidence from the literature suggests no effect of dexrazoxane on the antitumour efficacy of anthracyclines, and there is no adverse effect on survival. Dexrazoxane is therefore a valuable tool for oncologists using anthracycline-based regimens. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.