Chemotherapy Drug Beneficial for Mesothelioma

According to a recent study, patients who have undergone chemotherapy for mesothelioma treatment without benefitting may find success in a second round.

The chemotherapy drug, vinorelbine has proven to have a positive effect on those living with this fatal illness.

Treating Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is an illness that’s caused by exposure to asbestos and a cure has not yet been found.

What’s known as the “gold standard” therapy, which is combines the chemotherapy drug, pemetrexed, and cisplatin, sometimes doesn’t always benefit those living with the illness.

Until now, doctors haven’t had an answer regarding what to do if the first round of chemotherapy doesn’t work and the illness continues to progress.

“Mesothelioma is often rapidly progressive, so patients often sadly don’t reach the second-line setting,” explains Justin Stebbing, a medical oncologist. “As first-line therapy has improved, now it’s important to trial second-line therapies.”

Study Conducted

The study regarding second-line therapies involved 63 patients whose diseases progressed, even though chemotherapy treatment was administered.

“Vinorelbine had activity and was surprisingly well tolerated,” says Dr. Stebbing. “However the drug may not be appropriate for everyone.”

(Source: Surviving Mesothelioma)

Do you know someone living with mesothelioma? If so, please contact us to speak with someone about the resources available to you.