Structure of Cyclophosphamide
Cyclophosphamide is a prodrug alkylating agent with a nitrogen mustard structure attached to a phosphoramide moiety.
Chemical Formula: C₈H₁₅Cl₂N₂O₂P
Mode of Action
Prodrug Activation: Metabolized in the liver to form active metabolites (phosphoramide mustard and acrolein).
DNA Alkylation: Phosphoramide mustard forms crosslinks with DNA, inhibiting replication and transcription.
Cell Death: Induces apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells.
Uses
Lymphomas: Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Leukemias: Various forms.
Breast Cancer: As part of combination chemotherapy.
Ovarian Cancer: Treatment and prevention of recurrence.
Autoimmune Diseases: Such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus (off-label uses).