Abstract

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and the development of effective anticancer drugs is a critical aspect of cancer treatment. Anticancer drugs work through various mechanisms, including the inhibition of cell division, induction of apoptosis, and disruption of cancer cell metabolism. These drugs may act specifically on cancerous cells or affect both cancerous and healthy cells, often resulting in side effects. The article discusses the mechanisms of action of key anticancer drugs, the challenges in their development, and emerging strategies that aim to enhance their effectiveness and minimize side effects. It also explores new treatment modalities like immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and combination therapies, which are revolutionizing cancer care.