Mesothelioma

Chemotherapy

Anticancer, or chemotherapy drugs, aim to kill cancer cells by preventing them from multiplying. Depending on the stage of the cancer, as well as the age and health of the patient, chemotherapy can be used to meet different goals. Because chemotherapy for mesothelioma is not regarded as "curative," the treatment strives to:

• Stop the spread or growth of the cancer
• Shrink tumors before surgery
• Destroy disease left behind after surgery
• Relieve symptoms, including pain

Altima

Altima (premetrexed) is a chemotherapy drug approved by the FDA for use with Cisplatin in pleural mesothelioma patients. The first drug specifically approved to treat mesothelioma, Altima works by blocking the enzymes needed for DNA copying and cell division. When combined with Cisplatin, Altima is the most effective form of treatment for patients who are not eligible for surgery. During mesothelioma clinical trials, patients receiving the Altima/Cisplatin combination lived for an average of three months longer than those on Cisplatin alone.

Most patients receiving Altima and Cisplatin experience mild to moderate side effects, such as fatigue, nausea and vomiting. These side effects can usually be managed by your doctor. However, if your side effects become severe, your doctor may recommend a decrease in dosage or change in treatment. All adverse reactions, even minor ones, should be reported to your physician immediately.

Chemotherapy Side Effects

Like Altima, all chemotherapy drugs carry potential side effects. Because chemotherapy drugs also attack healthy cells, particularly those in the hair follicles, digestive system and reproductive organs, many patients suffer adverse reactions related to these areas of the body. The severity and type of side effects experienced by chemotherapy patients usually depends on the type of chemotherapy drug, the dosage and how your body reacts to the treatment.

Before starting chemotherapy, your doctor will ask you to sign a consent form. However, you should make sure your physician answers all your questions regarding chemotherapy before signing the form. Some topics that you may want to ask your doctor about include:

• The type of drug(s) you will receive
• Possible risks
• Potential side effects, such as nausea, hair loss and diarrhea
• The number of treatments and how often they will be administered
• Location where you will receive the treatment

Once chemotherapy is over, normal cells usually recover, putting an end to any side effects you are experiencing. The length it takes for your body to recover depends on your health and the type of chemotherapy you receive.

New chemotherapy drugs, such as Altima, are showing great results in mesothelioma patients. Scientists continue to study these new therapies in cancer centers and clinical trials across the country. If you are considering chemotherapy treatment for mesothelioma, speak with your doctors about the risks, benefits, and potential side effects. Additionally, if you are in need of legal help, fill out our free case evaluation form to speak with a mesothelioma attorney.