Pirarubicin is primarily used in cancer treatment, especially for various types of solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. It is effective in the management of breast cancer, gastric cancer, and acute leukemias. As an anthracycline derivative, it works by intercalating into DNA and inhibiting topoisomerase II, thereby preventing cancer cell replication and promoting apoptosis. Its ability to accumulate in tumor tissues gives it an advantage in targeted therapy, while potentially reducing some systemic side effects compared to other anthracyclines. Pirarubicin is often used when other treatments have failed, due to its activity in multidrug-resistant cancers. It can be administered intravenously and is sometimes used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents to enhance efficacy.