Cytotoxic drugs are medications that kill or inhibit the growth of cells, particularly cancer cells. They are commonly used in chemotherapy to treat various types of cancer by targeting rapidly dividing cells. However, these drugs can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects such as nausea, hair loss, and fatigue. These drugs work by disrupting the cell cycle, preventing cells from dividing and multiplying. There are different classes of cytotoxic drugs, including alkylating agents, antimetabolites, and plant alkaloids. Each class has a unique mechanism of action, making them effective against specific types of cancer.