A chemotherapy drug with few side effects has been developed by the University of Maryland's Greenebaum Cancer Center, in Baltimore, USA. The drug prevents further division of mutated cancerous cells. When the drug was tested for safety on 34 adult patients of leukemia, it was found that the drug did not have many side effects at lower concentrations. A high dose of 1,200 milligrammes, administered twice a day, could bring about neurological problems such as confusion, lack of balance and visual problems, but these effects disappeared 72 hours after the treatment was stopped. The degree of response shown by the patient varied according to the type of leukemia ( Blood 2001 , Vol 97, p 3361-3369).
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.