Cisplatin is known to act as which type of drug?

Cisplatin is classified as a cytotoxic agent, which means it is designed to kill cancer cells by interfering with their ability to divide and replicate. It functions primarily by forming DNA cross-links, preventing DNA replication and transcription, ultimately leading to cell death. This mechanism of action is characteristic of many chemotherapeutic agents, which are used to treat various types of cancer.

While cisplatin does have effects that may enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy, categorizing it primarily as a radiosensitizer is not accurate. Radiosensitizers specifically enhance the effect of radiation therapy, making cancer cells more susceptible to radiation damage. In the case of cisplatin, its primary classification focuses on its direct cytotoxic effects as a chemotherapy drug rather than solely its role in enhancing the effects of radiation.