Mesothelioma chemotherapy

In each treatment of cancer caused by asbestos, such as mesothelioma, it is often also used to cisplatin chemotherapy combined with a more actual medicine to be effective. Cisplatin has been marketed for a long time and although it was not initially effective for treating mesothelioma, but when combined with Alimta it will be very effective.

Alimta and combinations cisplatin now regarded as one of the most effective chemotherapy treatments for pleural mesothelioma patients are inoperable.

Because the drug was introduced about 30 years ago and was the first in his class of alkylating agents, often cause more side effects than the newer chemotherapy drugs. Therefore, doctors often will try other chemotherapy drugs before recommending treatment with cisplatin.

Cisplatin patients should discuss any concerns determined the potential of their doctor. Be sure to review the statistics about the effectiveness of Alimta and cisplatin, the combination of drug administration, and side effects that patients encounter with the treatment. It is important to take B12 supplements orally began weeks before the treatment starts, as well as B12 shots weekly throughout treatment. Patients should also take folic acid supplements daily (by mouth), which will continue for 21 days after the last dose cycles of cisplatin and Alimta. Doctors also may prescribe oral steroids to help minimize side effects such as skin rash. Patients taking other drugs, both prescription and non-prescription as a supplement, should inform their doctors to avoid potentially serious drug interactions.

Cisplatin Alimta is given to patients with mesothelioma each 21 days is outpatient, usually in a hospital or cancer treatment center. Alimta treatment consists of doses by IV (which usually lasts around 10 to 15 minutes), followed by cisplatin (which lasted about two hours to manage). The number of cycles required will depend on patient response to medication, and side effects experienced.

Side effects of cisplatin and Alimta is usually mild to moderate for most patients with pleural mesothelioma, and include:

* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Fatigue
* Thin or brittle hair
* Loss of appetite or weight
* Diarrhea
* Changes in taste
* Numb or tingling in the fingertips and toes
* Kidney toxicity
* Low white blood cells (neutropenia)
* Low red blood cells (anemia)

Patients experiencing the following symptoms should immediately contact your doctor:

* Bruise or unusual bleeding
* Black stool
* Fever
* Chills
* Dizziness
* Diarrhea
* Shortness of breath or wheezing
* Swelling of the feet or ankles
* Seizures
* Rash

Some patients may experience extreme side effects, which should be reported to a medical professional immediately. Cisplatin could potentially cause serious kidney problems and is very important to drink plenty of water during treatment with chemotherapy agents.