Treatments > Chemotherapy

Mesothelioma Chemotherapy

The term "chemotherapy" may be used to describe any drugs used in the treatment of disease but the word is commonly used to refer to medications utilized in the treatment of cancer. The term refers to treating disease with chemicals that kill cells. .

Generally, chemotherapy drugs work by targeting specific processes in cells that are undergoing rapid division and growth, preventing cell division, resulting in the death of the cancerous cells. Unfortunately, these drugs are not highly specific, and in addition to killing cancerous cells, chemotherapeutic drugs also kill healthy cells, such as those involved in hair growth.
In terms of mesothelioma treatment, several options for chemotherapy are available. Most chemotherapy drugs have specific side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, and increased vulnerability to infection. Any symptoms experienced while undergoing treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs should be reported to the doctor.
Many mesothelioma patients will consider chemotherapy as a treatment option. Understanding the various chemotherapy options and available treatments often helps patients and their loved ones make the best decision for their personal situation. We offer a comprehensive packet detailing treatment and chemotherapy options and information about the side effects of the treatment, providing patients and family members with the most current information available. Click here to receive this packet overnight.

Evaluating Chemotherapy Options

Deciding which chemotherapy option is the best treatment for specific mesothelioma cases depends on a number of factors, including the type of mesothelioma, the stage of the disease, and other treatment being administered. Factors such as overall physical health and age are also taken into consideration when detailing a chemotherapy treatment plan.
Currently more than 100 chemotherapy drugs are on the market but only a handful are deemed appropriate for fighting mesothelioma. In most cases, doctors treating mesothelioma patients recommend combination therapy - the tandem use of two different chemotherapy drugs. These combinations have been proven to be the most successful in the fight against mesothelioma. .
All treatment options will be thoroughly discussed with the patient's cancer doctor before a decision is made. Patients should provide a full disclosure of their medical history, including details of any prescriptions and over-the-counter medications being taken to ensure treatment is administered with the most appropriate chemotherapeutic agent.
Currently, the most common chemotherapy drugs for mesothelioma include Alimta (the only FDA-approved drug specifically designed for the treatment of mesothelioma), Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Onconase, Gemcitabine, and Navelbine. The medications are usually administered conventionally (by IV or pill form), or may be used in a newer treatment method called heated chemotherapy.

Can Chemotherapy Cure Mesothelioma?

Currently, there is no proven cure for mesothelioma. However, chemotherapy can help control symptoms and shrink tumors and is largely used as a palliative measure to help improve the patient's quality of life. The development of combination treatments has proved successful in achieving longer survival rates and researchers continue to look for new ways to fight this aggressive disease.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may find solace in reading “Lean on Me – Cancer through a Carer’s Eyes,” a touching story by Lorraine Kember who recounts her husband’s journey with mesothelioma in this emotional and informative book. For your complimentary copy, please use this form or visit the “Support Book” link to the right for more information.
Sources:

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4. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_4X_Chemotherapy_29.asp?sitearea=
5. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mesothelioma/DS00779/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs