There are several types of treatment available for patients with mesothelioma. The most commonly used treatments are a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Mesothelioma Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a common method of treating mesothelioma and generally has mixed results because of the variety of patients and their overall health.
What is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy drugs generally work by targeting cells that are rapidly dividing by interfering with this process of cell division. Unfortunately, these drugs not only kill cancerous cells but also healthy cells. An example of this is the cells involved in hair growth. As a result, a side effect of most chemotherapy drugs is hair loss. Other side effects of chemotherapy drugs can be nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and increased vulnerability to infections.
Deciding which chemotherapy option is the best treatment for mesothelioma should be thoroughly discussed with the patient's cancer doctor. The best chemotherapy treatment for mesothelioma often depends on the type of mesothelioma, the stage of mesothelioma and other ongoing mesothelioma treatment such as radiation.
What Chemotherapy Drugs are Available?
Chemotherapy medications for mesothelioma can be administered either by IV or pill form. The most common FDA approved chemotherapy drug specifically designed for Mesothelioma is Alimta. Other chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of mesothelioma include Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Onconase, Gemcitabine, and Navelbine. In talking with their cancer doctor, mesothelioma patients should also consider other available newer chemotherapy drugs and/or treatment such as heated chemotherapy.
Can Chemotherapy Cure Mesothelioma?
Although chemotherapy treatment is no cure for mesothelioma, chemotherapy does work to control the symptoms. As a result, chemotherapy works as a pain-relieving measure improving the patient's quality of life. The combination of treatments are successful in increasing the patient's life span while improving their quality of life.
Aggressive Representation to Secure Medical Coverage
Our attorneys are skilled at tracing asbestos exposures to pursue compensation for mesothelioma treatment. Our lawyers travel nationwide to assist clients and their caregivers. We offer a free consultation at 888-356-0346 and strong, compassionate advocacy for anyone with mesothelioma, asbestosis or asbestos lung cancer.
