Introduction
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral commonly used in construction and manufacturing industries. Unfortunately, mesothelioma has a poor prognosis, with only a small percentage of patients surviving beyond five years after diagnosis. However, early detection and appropriate treatment can improve a patient’s quality of life and prolong their survival.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you are likely wondering what kind of medication can help treat the disease. In this article, we will discuss the different types of medication used to manage mesothelioma, their benefits and side effects, and other important information that you need to know.
The Role of Medication in Mesothelioma Treatment
The treatment of mesothelioma is typically multimodal, meaning that it involves a combination of different therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the location and stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health and medical history, and their preferences.
Medications are commonly used in mesothelioma treatment for several reasons:
- To shrink the size of the tumor before surgery or radiation therapy
- To kill cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body
- To manage symptoms, such as pain, breathing difficulties, and fluid buildup
- To improve the effectiveness of other treatments
There are different types of medication that doctors may prescribe for mesothelioma, depending on the specific goals of treatment. These medications can be classified into several categories:
1. Chemotherapy Drugs
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. Chemotherapy drugs can be given orally, intravenously, or directly into the affected area, such as the chest or abdomen.
Several chemotherapy drugs have been approved for mesothelioma treatment, alone or in combination with other drugs. These drugs include:
| Drug | Brand Name | How It Works | Possible Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| pemetrexed | Alimta | Blocks the production of DNA and RNA in cancer cells | Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, low blood cell counts, rash |
| cisplatin | Platinol | Interferes with the DNA synthesis in cancer cells | Nausea and vomiting, kidney damage, low blood cell counts, hearing loss |
| carboplatin | Paraplatin | Interferes with the DNA synthesis in cancer cells | Nausea and vomiting, kidney damage, low blood cell counts, hearing loss |
| gemcitabine | Gemzar | Blocks the DNA replication in cancer cells | Nausea and vomiting, low blood cell counts, rash, fever, flu-like symptoms |
2. Targeted Therapy Drugs
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to target specific molecules or proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Targeted therapy drugs can be given orally or intravenously.
There are currently no targeted therapy drugs that are approved specifically for mesothelioma. However, some drugs that target certain molecules that are commonly found in mesothelioma cells, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), are being studied in clinical trials.
3. Immunotherapy Drugs
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy drugs can be given orally, intravenously, or through injections.
Several immunotherapy drugs have been approved for mesothelioma treatment, alone or in combination with chemotherapy drugs. These drugs include:
| Drug | Brand Name | How It Works | Possible Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| pembrolizumab | Keytruda | Blocks a protein called PD-1 that helps cancer cells evade the immune system | Fatigue, muscle pain, diarrhea, rash |
| nivolumab | Opdivo | Blocks a protein called PD-1 that helps cancer cells evade the immune system | Fatigue, diarrhea, rash, cough, difficulty breathing |
| atezolizumab | Tecentriq | Blocks a protein called PD-L1 that helps cancer cells evade the immune system | Fatigue, fever, decreased appetite, cough, shortness of breath |
4. Pain Management Drugs
Mesothelioma can cause significant pain, which can be managed with the use of pain medications. Pain medications can be given orally or through injections, patches, or pumps.
Commonly used pain medications for mesothelioma include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin
- Opioids, such as morphine, fentanyl, and oxycodone
- Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and duloxetine, which can help with neuropathic pain
- Anticonvulsants, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, which can help with neuropathic pain
FAQs about Mesothelioma Medication
1. Are There Any Alternative Treatments for Mesothelioma?
Some patients may choose to try alternative or complementary treatments alongside conventional medicine. However, it is important to discuss any alternative treatments with your doctor first, as some therapies may interfere with the effectiveness of conventional treatments, or even be harmful.
2. Can I Stop Taking My Mesothelioma Medications Once My Symptoms Improve?
No, you should continue taking your medications as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Stopping your medications prematurely can allow the cancer to grow or spread, and may also lead to the development of drug resistance.
3. What Should I Do If I Experience Side Effects from My Mesothelioma Medications?
You should notify your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects from your medications. Depending on the severity and type of side effects, your doctor may adjust your dosage, prescribe additional medications to manage the side effects, or switch to a different medication.
4. Can Mesothelioma Medications Cure the Cancer?
No, there is currently no cure for mesothelioma. However, medications can help manage the symptoms of the disease and prolong the patient’s survival.
5. Can I Take Over-the-Counter Medications for Mesothelioma?
You should always consult your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications, as some drugs may interact with your mesothelioma medications and cause adverse effects.
6. Can I Participate in Clinical Trials for Mesothelioma Medications?
Yes, you may be eligible to participate in clinical trials for mesothelioma medications. Clinical trials are research studies that test new drugs or therapies to determine their safety and effectiveness. Ask your doctor or contact a cancer center to find out more about clinical trials for mesothelioma.
7. Will My Insurance Cover the Cost of Mesothelioma Medications?
Insurance coverage for mesothelioma medications varies depending on the type of insurance plan you have, as well as the specific drugs and doses that you need. You should check with your insurance provider to see what medications are covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mesothelioma is a challenging disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment. Medications play an important role in managing the symptoms of mesothelioma and improving the patient’s quality of life. However, it is important to work closely with your doctor to determine the right medication for you, taking into account your medical history, current health status, and treatment goals. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns
about your treatment plan, and always report any side effects to your doctor.
If you or a loved one is living with mesothelioma, we encourage you to seek support from reliable sources, such as cancer organizations, support groups, and healthcare providers. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to maintain hope and live a fulfilling life with mesothelioma.
Closing
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Mesothelioma treatment requires careful evaluation and monitoring by a qualified healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about your mesothelioma medication, please consult your doctor.
