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FOLFOX chemotherapy regimen

Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University · Phase 3 active Small molecule

FOLFOX is a combination chemotherapy regimen that kills cancer cells by damaging DNA and preventing cell division through multiple mechanisms of action.

FOLFOX is a combination chemotherapy regimen that kills cancer cells by damaging DNA and preventing cell division through multiple mechanisms of action. Used for Metastatic colorectal cancer, Adjuvant treatment of stage III colorectal cancer, Advanced gastric cancer.

At a glance

Generic nameFOLFOX chemotherapy regimen
Also known asCapeOx chemotherapy regimen
SponsorSixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University
Drug classCombination chemotherapy regimen
TargetThymidylate synthase (5-FU), DNA (oxaliplatin)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

FOLFOX combines three drugs: 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), which inhibits thymidylate synthase and disrupts DNA synthesis; leucovorin (folinic acid), which enhances 5-FU's activity by stabilizing its binding to target enzymes; and oxaliplatin, a platinum compound that forms DNA crosslinks and prevents replication. Together, these agents work synergistically to induce apoptosis in rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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