fotemustine

Fotemustine is a small molecule nitrosourea alkylating agent used primarily in the treatment of metastatic melanoma and recurrent malignant gliomas. It acts by alkylating DNA, specifically forming chloroethyl adducts at the 6 position of guanine, which leads to cross-linking between N1-guanin and N3-cytosine residues. This results in inhibition of DNA synthesis, cell cycle arrest (notably accumulation in G2/M phase), and ultimately apoptosis. Its chemical structure includes a phosphonic acid moiety that facilitates penetration across the blood-brain barrier, making it particularly effective for brain tumors. Fotemustine is available mainly in Europe and has not been approved by the US FDA[1][2][4][5][7].

Brand names

MuphoranMustophoraneMustoforan

Other names

FotemustinaFotemustinumDiethyl (1-(3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosoureido)ethyl)phosphonate(+/-)-Diethyl (1-(3-(2-chloroethyl)-3-nitrosoureido)ethyl)phosphonate