Neurotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents: mechanisms and mitigation strategies

Chemotherapeutic drugs have neurotoxic consequences even if they are used to treat cancer. Peripheral neuropathy, cognitive impairment, neuropathic pain, seizures, encephalopathy, and other symptoms may be present. According to studies conducted worldwide, up to 75% of patients taking chemotherapeutic drugs may have detectable cognitive deficits, while 30-40% of patients acquire peripheral neuropathy. One of the most commonly reported neurological side effects of cancer treatment is chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, which raises morbidity and, in certain situations, death. This overview covers the primary impacts of chemotherapy on the peripheral and central nervous systems. The discovery of medications that can shield the nervous system, lessen the symptoms that millions of patients endure, and enhance treatment outcomes and patients' quality of life depends on an understanding of the processes behind chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity.