A new study has found that the popular mesothelioma drug Alimta (also known as the genric pemetrexed) may be more effective in mesothelioma treatment when combined with other drugs.
The drug Alimta is commonly used in chemotherapy-based mesothelioma treatment –and frequently combined with cisplatin. Even though many drugs typically interact with one another, there has been little research done on the specific reaction between pemetrexed and chemotherapy drug cisplatin in mesothelioma treatment.
As reported in a recent issue of Oncology Reports, a team of Japanese researchers conducted a study to better understand the interaction between pemetrexed and cisplatin. As part of the study, the researchers used the combined drugs to treat mesothelioma cells in a lab. Though there was some resistance, the researchers found that the combination of pemetrexed and cisplatin performed well in combating mesothelioma cells in most cases.
In 2004, premetrexed (using the brand name Alimta) became the first FDA-approved drug specifically for malignant pleural mesothelioma treatment. It is also sometimes used to treat certain types of lung cancer (usually of the non-small cell variety).
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer of the lining of the internal organs that can affect the heart, abdomen and, most commonly, the lungs. Only approximately 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the United States. But, unlike many cancers, mesothelioma can be traced to a specific source –asbestos exposure –and is preventable.
Mesothelioma is generally treated by three different techniques (sometimes these techniques are combined based on the specific health needs of a patient): chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy. Learn more about mesothelioma treatment.
Navigating a mesothelioma diagnosis can be overwhelming. That's why we're here to help you fight back. To learn more about mesothelioma treatment, asbestos and mesothelioma lawsuits, call us at 1.866.844.1229 or fill out our contact form to request a free mesothelioma care package.
