**Question:** Toxicity of nitrogen mustards can be decreased by

A. Converting to less toxic derivatives
B. Using corticosteroids along with nitrogen mustards
C. Administering nitrogen mustards at lower doses
D. Administering with antihistamines

**Correct Answer:** .

**Core Concept:** Nitrogen mustards are a class of cytotoxic drugs used in cancer therapy, particularly in the treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. They exert their cytotoxic effect by forming interstrand and intrastrand cross-links in DNA, ultimately leading to cell death.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Nitrogen mustards can be less toxic when used in combination with corticosteroids (Option B). Corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, which can help reduce the toxic effects of nitrogen mustards. They work by suppressing the immune system and reducing the production of cytokines, which are responsible for the adverse effects of nitrogen mustards, such as myelosuppression, mucositis, and nephrotoxicity.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

Option A (Converting to less toxic derivatives) is incorrect because it would involve modifying the nitrogen mustards chemically, which is not a standard therapeutic approach.

Option C (Administering nitrogen mustards at lower doses) is not the best strategy as it may compromise the therapeutic effect of nitrogen mustards due to their unique mechanism of action.

Option D (Administering with antihistamines) is incorrect as antihistamines are primarily used to treat allergic reactions and do not have any known beneficial effects on the toxicity of nitrogen mustards.

**Clinical Pearl:** To minimize the toxicity of nitrogen mustards, it is essential to use corticosteroids in combination with the drug. This approach significantly reduces the side effects while maintaining the therapeutic effect of nitrogen mustards in cancer treatment.