Pharmacodynamics and Cancer: Practical Aspects of Dose Intensity for Pharmacists

Abstract

Recent clinical studies have suggested that dose or dose intensity may be a critical factor in achieving an optimal effect from cancer chemotherapy in tumors that are chemosensitive. This article reviews the rationale for the importance of drug dose in cancer chemotherapy and methods of expressing dose intensity. Several clinical studies that provide evidence of the importance of dose intensity are reviewed. The concept of systemic intensity of cancer chemotherapy is discussed. Finally, the practical aspects of dose intensity for the pharmacist are addressed, including dosage calculation, drug preparation and administration, and compliance. The pharmacist plays an integral role in assuring the patient with cancer receive the appropriate dose of cancer chemotherapy.