Introduction to Alimta Chemotherapy

Introduction to Alimta Chemotherapy

Introduction to Alimta Chemotherapy

Alimta Chemotherapy is specially given to patients suffering from malignant pleural mesothelioma. This must be taken strictly under the supervision of a specialized doctor. Alimta medication is considered to be the most effective way to treat mesothelioma, without the patients needing to undergo any kind of surgery.

Alimta Chemotherapy: Mesothelioma Facts

According to leading mesothelioma cancer resource Asbestos.com, about 2,000-3,000 people are diagnosed with this disorder each year in the United States. Men are more likely to develop this form of cancer than women and about 80% of the cases have a history of having worked at a job that exposed them to asbestos.

Although there is no cure for this disease at present, Alimta chemotherapy does help to a large extent to increase life expectancy. The survival rate for people diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer also depends on their overall health and the type of mesothelioma. Life expectancy, in general, is about 10 to 11 months from the time of diagnosis. This could be because the symptoms of this disorder become apparent only in the later stages.

How does Alimta Chemotherapy Work?

Alimta belongs to a class of medication called antineoplastics. It works as an antimetabolite. Alimta Chemotherapy acts to stop malignant cells from dividing and thus multiplying. While treating malignant pleural mesothelioma, this drug is used in combination with cisplatin, an alkylating agent. It is always important to consult the doctor before, during and after Alimta chemotherapy.

Alimta Chemotherapy: Precautions

This treatment is usually accompanied by vitamin B12 supplements by injection before starting and is repeated every 9 weeks. Folic acid is also given daily and is continued for a period of 21 days subsequent to the previous cycle of Alimta. An oral steroid is also given in order to prevent skin rashes and other side effects that can occur during the course of treatment. Apart from this, your physician will decide on the dosage of Alimta Chemotherapy at regular intervals, after getting all the test reports that show the physical condition of the patient.

It is important to inform the doctor if you are on any other medication in order to avoid any possibility of harmful drug interactions. The cycle of treatment depends entirely on the rate of response of the patients. The treatment is might be halted in some critical cases, if there are severe adverse reactions.

Alimta Chemotherapy: Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects of Alimta Chemotherapy include vomiting, fatigue and nausea. Some patients have also reported diabetic side effects, in which case, the dosage is decreased and in some cases, entirely stopped. No side effect should be considered minor and immediate medical attention should be sought.

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