Abstract: Derivatives of camptothecin are disclosed and are represented by the general formula: ##STR1## wherein when R.sub.2 is H, R.sub.1 is a C.sub.2 -C.sub.4 alkyl group, a C.sub.6 -C.sub.15 alkl group, a C.sub.3 -C.sub.8 cycloalkyl group, a C.sub.2 -C.sub.15 alkenyl group or a C.sub.2 -C.sub.15 epoxy group; and when R.sub.2 is a nitro group, R.sub.1 is a C.sub.1 -C.sub.15 alkyl group, a C.sub.2 -C.sub.15 alkenyl group, a C.sub.3 -C.sub.8 cycloalkyl group, or an epoxy group. Processes for mailing these derivatives and for using them in cancer treatment are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for the preparation of 9-nitrocamptothecin which involves reacting 20-camptothecin with at least one inorganic nitrate salt and at least one acid effective in catalyzing the formation of a nitronium ion, where the reaction occurs at a temperature and for a time sufficient to form the 9-nitrocamptothecin. Also, methods of further purifying the 9-nitrocamptothecin by column chromatography or by reprecipatation is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of treating specific forms of cancer with water-insoluble 20(S)-camptothecin compounds with the closed-lactone ring intact and/or derivatives thereof is disclosed. The method includes administering the compounds intramuscularly, orally and transdermally.

Abstract: Derivatives of camptothecin are disclosed and are represented by the general formula: ##STR1## wherein when R.sub.2 is H, R.sub.1 is a C.sub.2 -C.sub.15 alkyl group, a C.sub.2 -C.sub.15 alkenyl group or an epoxy group; and when R.sub.2 is a nitro group, R.sub.1 is a C.sub.1 -C.sub.15 alkyl group, a C.sub.1 -C.sub.15 alkenyl group or an epoxy group. Processes for making these derivatives and for using them in cancer treatment are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of treating specific forms of cancer with water-insoluble 20(S)-camptothecin compounds with the closed-lactone ring intact and/or derivatives thereof is disclosed. The method includes administering the compounds intramuscularly, orally and transdermally.

Abstract: Methods for purifying 20(S)-camptothecin are described. The 20(S)-camptothecin in purified form is useful in the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: A method of treating specific forms of cancer with water-insoluble 20(S)-camptothecin compounds with the closed-lactone ring intact and/or derivatives thereof is disclosed. The method includes administering the compounds intramuscularly, orally and transdermally.

Abstract: Methods for purifying 20(S)-camptothecin are described. The 20(S)-camptothecin in purified form is useful in the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: Methods for purifying camptothecin compounds are described. The camptothecin compounds in purified form are useful in the treatment of cancer.