Mesothelioma TreatmentChemotherapy
Alimta
Now considered a first-line drug in the treatment of mesothelioma, Alimta has been lauded as the first and only chemotherapy drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) or non-small cell lung cancer. Manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company Pharmaceuticals, oncologists are singing the praises of this breakthrough drug, which is often used in conjunction with another popular chemo drug, cisplatin.
Technically speaking, Alimta is designed to interfere with the process that allows diseased cells to spread and/or grow by stopping the production of three specific enzymes.
What Does Treatment Involve?
Since Alimta is now the drug of choice for many doctors who treat patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma, theres a good chance that it may be recommended for you. Heres a list of things to expect during treatment and some information on how the drug is administered.
- Alimta is administered on an outpatient basis at a hospital, clinic, or other medical facility. No overnight stays will be required.
- Alimta will probably be administered along with a platinum agent such as cisplatin, as this has proven to be an excellent combination producing favorable results.
- Both drugs are administered in cycles and will be given on the same day. Upon completion of one (1) cycle, your body will need to rest for 20 days in order to give your healthy cells time to replenish themselves.
- Like most chemotherapy drugs, both Alimta and the platinum agent will be administered intravenously. Expect the process to take about 2 hours.
- Only your doctor can determine how many cycles are necessary for your stage of mesothelioma. There is no pre-determined number of cycles.
Controlling Side Effects
Like all chemotherapy drugs, treatment with Alimta may result in some unpleasant side effects, but new drugs and other remedies help keep them in check. Patients may be given folic acid, vitamin B12, anti-nausea medications, or other medications to reduce the following side effects:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anemia
- Fever
- Constipation
- Blood and bone marrow problems
- Skin rash
- Sores in the mouth
Monitor all side effects carefully and report any concerns to your doctor immediately. Your doctor will also inform you as to potentially harmful drug interactions.
