Chemicals that destroy cells or prevent their multiplication are used in cancer chemotherapy.
Chemicals that destroy specific cells; streptozotocin is an example. This agent destroys the insulin- producing P cells of the pancreas.
Any drug that destroys cells or prevents them from multiplying. Cytotoxic agents are used to treat cancers and severe immunological disorders (e.g., vasculitis or some forms of glomerulonephritis). An ideal agent would destroy proliferating cells without injuring the normal cells of the body.