Anthracyclines

Anthracyclines, a type of medication, have been used effectively for decades to treat cancer. They work by interfering with production of DNA and RNA, the genetic building blocks of cells. Doxorubicin, duanorubicin, idarubicin, epirubicin and mitoxantrone are examples of anthracyclines.

Anthracyclines are often used in childhood cancers, leukemia, lymphoma, and breast cancer. While an important way to treat cancer, these medications also can damage the heart (most commonly cardiomyopathy or heart failure) and might increase the risk of heart disease – or worsen any heart issues you have already. This is called cardiotoxicity.  

Author: Vlad Zaha, MD, and Steven Phillips, MD
Reviewers: Lavanya Kondapalli, MD; Karen Smith, MD; Bonnie Ky, MD; Courtney Campbell, MD