Chemotherapy is the most common treatment used to fight mesothelioma. Doctors continue to find newer and more effective chemotherapy drugs to provide relief from this disease. Some of these drugs have even been shown to prolong the life of someone with mesothelioma.
Each mesothelioma patient will have their own response to chemotherapy. Some have very little difficulty with the treatment and report that the side effects were minimal. Others will experience greater discomfort and decide that the benefits are not worth the pain. The medical profession has made great strides in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy and mesothelioma patients should talk with their family and their doctor to determine whether to undergo this treatment.
For mesothelioma patients, the chemotherapy drugs are usually injected intravenously. These treatments are often given every three weeks. The most common drugs used are
- Alimta® (pemetrexed) - Alimta® is the brand name for pemetrexed, and was approved by the FDA in 2004 for use in the treatment of malignant mesothelioma, often in combination with a second form of chemotherapy, such as cisplatin or carboplatin. Alimta® slows cell division by blocking the specific DNA making processes that cells require to divide and reproduce. Alimta® disrupts the action of 3 specific enzymes required for cancer growth.
- Raltitrexed - Raltitrexed is a chemotherapy drug used to treat malignant mesothelioma as well as cancer of the colon and rectum. It belongs to a class of medications known as antimetabolites. Raltitrexed restricts the growth of cancer cells and ultimately destroys them by blocking an enzyme needed by the cells to live.
- Cisplatin - Cisplatin is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat many types of cancers, including mesothelioma. Cisplatin belongs to the class of medications known as alkylating agents. Cisplatin kills cancer cells by forming reactive platinum complexes which bind to nucleophilic groups in DNA, creating DNA cross-links which interfere with the cell’s ability to repair itself. Cisplatin is often used in combination with other drugs, such as Alimta®, for maximum effect.
- Carboplatin - Carboplatin, a chemotherapy drug, belongs to a class of medications known as alkylating agents. Carboplatin is used to treat several types of cancers including mesothelioma. Carboplatin kills cancer cells by stopping their growth. As a platinum based agent, carboplatin kills cancer cells by interfering with DNA repair as it interacts with DNA.
Medication and vitamins may be given to help manage the side effects, such as nausea and fatigue. Sometimes, chemotherapy is used prior to, along with, or after surgery.
If you or a loved one is interested in learning more about mesothelioma treatment options, complete the form below to request a free mesothelioma book of answers or contact us to speak with a medical specialist who can discuss your options and make a referral to a qualified physician.
