Toxicology of anti-leukemic agents with special reference to phthalanilide derivatives.

Abstract

Summary Some of the toxicologic problems associated with the use of newer agents such as the phthalanilides have been presented. In lieu of the discovery of anti-leukemic agents with much improved therapeutic indices, it is perhaps encouraging in terms of potential combination therapy that limiting toxicologic problems differ. Methods have been developed or adapted which indicate that these toxicologic problems may not be associated with all structurally related compounds with anti-leukemic activity. It is suggested that the area of selective reduction in toxicity by the administration of toxicity-alleviating agents merits increased attention.