Temozolomide for brain cancer

About temozolomide

Temozolomide is used to treat specific forms of brain tumours. It is used in adults who have been newly diagnosed as having a type of brain cancer called glioblastoma multiforme. When it is used for this type of tumour, it will be given alongside radiotherapy treatment to begin with, and then used alone. It can also be prescribed for adults and children with a type of brain cancer called malignant glioma. When it is used for this condition, it is used if the tumour has not responded to other, more standard, treatment.

Temozolomide works by interfering with how cancer cells divide and multiply. You will be prescribed it by a doctor who specialises in cancer treatment.

Before taking temozolomide

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking temozolomide, it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant, or if you intend to have children in the future (this applies to men and women).

• If you are breastfeeding.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works or how your kidneys work.

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take temozolomide

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack and any other written information you are given. The manufacturer's leaflet will give you more information about temozolomide and a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

• Temozolomide will be prescribed for you by a doctor who is experienced in treating your condition. It is usually prescribed in 'cycles', which means that a dose is taken each day for a number of days followed by several days without treatment. This cycle is then repeated a number of times. Follow the instructions you are given so that you take it exactly as you have been told by your doctor. Make sure you understand which days to take a dose.

• Temozolomide may cause you to feel sick (nausea) or be sick (vomit). It is important that you keep taking your doses at the correct times even if you feel unwell, but do let your doctor know about it, as you can be prescribed something to help with the sickness. If you are sick (vomiting) after taking temozolomide, do not take a second dose on the same day.

• Do not take temozolomide at the same time of day as food, as your body will absorb less of the medicine. You should take the capsules at least one hour before you eat a meal, or wait until two hours after you have eaten. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not open or chew the capsules.

• If you forget to take a dose, take the next dose when it is due and remember to let your doctor know about the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• You must try to keep your regular appointments with the doctor or hospital. This is so your progress can be checked. Temozolomide may reduce certain kinds of blood cells which are important for blood clotting and fighting infections. It can also cause damage to your liver. Because of these problems, your doctor will want to check your blood regularly while you are on temozolomide.

• You must avoid getting pregnant or fathering a child while you are on temozolomide. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment with temozolomide and for six months after stopping. Men must avoid fathering children for at least three months after they have finished treatment. Make sure you have discussed with your doctor which types of contraception are suitable for you and your partner. Many anti-cancer treatments are associated with reduced fertility (particularly in men), so you may also want to ask your doctor for family planning advice if you intend to have children in the future.

• There are several different strengths of temozolomide capsule. Each time you get a new supply, it is a good idea to check the strength of the capsules to make sure they are what you are expecting. If you are uncertain about anything, ask your pharmacist to check with your doctor for you.

• If you are due to have an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking temozolomide.

• Do not have any immunisations (vaccinations) while you are taking this medicine and for several months afterwards, without talking with your doctor first. Temozolomide lowers your body's resistance and there is a chance that you may get an infection from some vaccines.

• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable to take with your other medicines.

• Any unwanted capsules must be disposed of in a special way - ask your local or hospital pharmacy for advice about what to do.

Can temozolomide cause problems?

Temozolomide may increase the chance of you getting an infection. You should take certain precautions to reduce the risk of this - if possible, avoid people with an infection and let your doctor know if you think you are getting a sore throat or if you have a high temperature (fever).

Your doctor will discuss with you the possibility of unwanted side-effects of treatment. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with temozolomide. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your tablets. Let your doctor know if you experience any of the following, or if you develop any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine:

How to store temozolomide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in the original bottle in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  

Important information about all medicines