Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Chemotherapy-induced Vascular Toxicity - Real-time In vivo Imaging of Vessel Impairment
Published on: January 7, 2015
Clinical Approach to Cardiovascular Toxicity of Oral Antineoplastic Agents: JACC State-of-the-Art Review
Vijay U Rao1, David J Reeves2, Atul R Chugh1
1Franciscan Cardio-Oncology Center, Indiana Heart Physicians, Franciscan Health, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
Abstract:
Precision medicine has ushered in a new era of targeted treatments for numerous malignancies, leading to improvements in overall survival. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, many molecular targeted antineoplastic agents are available in oral formulation, leading to enhanced patient convenience and a perception of reduced risk of adverse effects. Although oral antineoplastic agents are generally well-tolerated, cardiovascular toxicities are being reported with increasing frequency in part due to U.S. Food and Drug Administration and manufacturer recommended cardiac monitoring. Monitoring strategies have focused on left ventricular dysfunction, hypertension, and QT prolongation/arrhythmias. Given the rapid pace of development and availability of new oral antineoplastic agents, the purpose of this review is to provide clinicians with an up-to-date practical approach to monitoring and management of cardiovascular toxicities with the aim of improving overall outcomes for patients with cancer.
Insights
Precision medicine offers targeted cancer treatments, with oral antineoplastic agents improving survival. This review guides clinicians on monitoring and managing cardiovascular toxicities from these novel cancer drugs.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Precision medicine advances have led to targeted cancer therapies, including oral antineoplastic agents.
- Oral formulations offer patient convenience but are associated with increasing cardiovascular toxicities.
- Current monitoring focuses on left ventricular dysfunction, hypertension, and QT prolongation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated, practical approach for clinicians on monitoring cardiovascular toxicities.
- To guide the management of cardiovascular side effects from oral antineoplastic agents.
- To improve patient outcomes in cancer care through proactive cardiac monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on oral antineoplastic agents and their cardiovascular effects.
- Analysis of FDA and manufacturer-recommended cardiac monitoring strategies.
- Synthesis of clinical data to inform management guidelines.
Main Results:
- Cardiovascular toxicities are a growing concern with oral antineoplastic agents.
- Effective monitoring and management strategies are crucial for patient safety.
- Early detection and intervention can mitigate serious cardiac events.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians need updated guidance for managing cardiovascular risks associated with oral cancer therapies.
- Proactive cardiac monitoring is essential for patients receiving targeted oral antineoplastics.
- Integrated care between oncology and cardiology can optimize cancer treatment outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
Cardiovascular Drugs: Classification based on Therapeutic Indications
Drug Toxicity: Overview
Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Treatment Strategies

