Alimta as a Mesothelioma Treatment
Alimta®, also known by the generic name pemetrexed, is a 21st century chemotherapy drug that’s been proven effective against mesothelioma and other asbestos-related cancers. Alimta works by blocking the action of a substance in the body that may allow cancer cells to multiply.
How Does Alimta Fight Mesothelioma?
Alimta is not a cure, but it slows the progression of mesothelioma and other cancers, and it can help to extend lives and improve the quality of life for many patients. In fact, Alimta is the first drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat mesothelioma in patients who are unable to tolerate surgery.
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How is Alimta Given?
Infused into a vein in the arm, Alimta may be given alone or followed by another chemotherapy drug. Although the Alimta infusion lasts only about 10 minutes, the entire outpatient procedure could take several hours.
Alimta treatments are usually repeated every three weeks. The oncologist who monitors your response to treatment will determine how many Alimta infusions you should receive.
Alimta Risks and Side Effects
As with any chemotherapy drug, there are risks and side effects associated with the use of Alimta. As a precaution, tell your doctor about any prescription or non-prescription medications you’re taking, including vitamin supplements and over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) or naproxen sodium (Aleve®, Naprosyn®). Be sure to mention any allergies.
Alimta causes fewer side effects than other chemotherapy drugs. However, if any of the following symptoms are troubling or last more than a few days, your doctor may be able to prescribe medications or vitamin supplements to relieve them:
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Slow or difficult speech
- Joint or muscle pain
- Sores and/or redness in or around the mouth or throat
- Fever, chills, cough, or other signs of infection
- Loss of appetite, weight loss
- Weakness, fatigue, difficulty sleeping
- Pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet
- Pale skin, hives, rash, itching
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Headache, dizziness, faintness, confusion
- Depression or changes in mood
- Fast heartbeat, chest pain
- Decreased urination
If you have mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation—money you can use to pay for your medical treatments and relieve some of the financial strain on your family. Call the mesothelioma law firm of Sokolove Law today at 888-360-4215 to discuss your legal options.