When someone is diagnosed with a certain cancer including asbestos cancer, chemotherapy is one of the treatment options available. Less targeted than asbestos cancer radiation therapy, This means that the drug enters the bloodstream and circulates throughout the body (through the whole system) to reach and destroy the cancer cells.

Unlike asbestos cancer radiation, chemotherapy does not target a specific area of the body, rather it targets Generally, chemotherapy drugs work by targeting specific processes in cells that are undergoing rapid division and growth, preventing cell division, resulting in the death of the cancerous cells. Unfortunately, these drugs are not highly specific, and in addition to killing cancerous cells, chemotherapeutic drugs also kill healthy cells, such as those involved in hair growth.

In terms of mesothelioma treatment, several options for chemotherapy are available. Most chemotherapy drugs have specific side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, and increased vulnerability to infection. Any symptoms experienced while undergoing treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs should be reported to the doctor.

Many mesothelioma patients will consider chemotherapy as a treatment option. Understanding the various chemotherapy options and available treatments often helps patients and their loved ones make the best decision for their personal situation. We offer a comprehensive packet detailing treatment and chemotherapy options and information about the side effects of the treatment, providing patients and family members with the most current information available. Click here to receive this packet overnight.

Evaluating Chemotherapy Options

Deciding which chemotherapy option is the best treatment for specific mesothelioma cases depends on a number of factors, including the type of mesothelioma, the stage of the disease, and other treatment being administered. Factors such as overall physical health and age are also taken into consideration when detailing a chemotherapy treatment plan.

Currently more than 100 chemotherapy drugs are on the market but only a handful are deemed appropriate for fighting mesothelioma. In most cases, doctors treating mesothelioma patients recommend combination therapy - the tandem use of two different chemotherapy drugs. These combinations have been proven to be the most successful in the fight against mesothelioma.

All treatment options will be thoroughly discussed with the patient's cancer doctor before a decision is made. Patients should provide a full disclosure of their medical history, including details of any prescriptions and over-the-counter medications being taken to ensure treatment is administered with the most appropriate chemotherapeutic agent.

As of now, the most common chemotherapy drugs for asbestos cancer include Alimta (the only FDA-approved drug specifically designed for the treatment of mesothelioma), Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Onconase, Gemcitabine, and Navelbine. The medications are usually administered conventionally (by IV or pill form), or may be used in a newer treatment method called heated chemotherapy.

Can Chemotherapy Cure Mesothelioma?