What is the primary use of Amifostine in chemotherapy?

The primary use of Amifostine in chemotherapy is to prevent nephrotoxicity associated with cisplatin. Cisplatin is a chemotherapy agent that can be highly effective against various cancers, but it also has the potential to cause significant side effects, particularly kidney damage. Amifostine works as a cytoprotective agent, meaning it helps to protect normal cells from the harmful effects of certain treatments. In the case of cisplatin, Amifostine has been shown to help mitigate renal toxicity, allowing patients to tolerate the chemotherapy better while still receiving the necessary treatment for their cancer.

This protective mechanism is particularly important because it enables clinicians to administer effective cancer therapies without as much concern for kidney function deterioration, which can lead to dose reductions or the need to discontinue treatment altogether. Thus, understanding the role of Amifostine is crucial for managing patients' overall health during chemotherapy regimens involving nephrotoxic agents.