Mesothelioma Treatment - Chemotherapy - Navelbine
Navelbine, which is also known as Vinorelbine, is relatively unique among chemotherapy drugs used for the treatment of mesothelioma because while most chemo drugs are entirely synthetic, Navelbine is a semi-synthetic drug that is extracted from a flowering plant known as Periwinkle.
Navelbine for Mesothelioma Treatment
Most chemotherapeutic drugs, including Navelbine, work by preventing cells from dividing, or by directly killing cells. Navelbine kills cells by entering them and binding to structures that are essential in cell division. This prevents cells from dividing, and because the cells cannot function normally, a form of "cellular suicide" occurs. Therefore Navelbine can both slow down the spread of cancers and kill existing cancer cells.
Relatively new on the scene, Navelbine has shown a slightly higher success rate than some other chemotherapy drugs in the treatment of mesothelioma, especially drugs that were developed two or three decades ago.
Often used in conjunction with other treatments such as surgery, or in tandem with other chemotherapeutic agents, Navelbine is usually given once a week for several weeks. The drug is administered intravenously, on an out-patient basis, and the treatment procedure usually takes around thirty minutes to an hour. The number of treatments a patient will receive is determined by the seriousness and location of the cancer.
When discussing your treatment options with your doctor, it is important to let them know about any other medical conditions from which you suffer, such as kidney or liver problems or a history of blood problems such as anemia. In addition, you must let your doctor know if you are taking any other medications, both prescription and over the counter. This is important because any medications or pre-existing medical conditions may affect your treatment options and help determine the dose of Navelbine that is right for you. In addition, some drugs do not interact positively with Navelbine.
Side Effects of Navelbine
People who are taking Navelbine for mesothelioma treatment may experience some symptoms and side effects that many become serious if left untreated. These symptoms should be reported to your doctor immediately if you experience them.
- An allergic reaction - symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue or face, or hives
- Extreme fatigue, tendency to bruise or bleed easily, blood in the stools, chills, fever or other signs of infection. These symptoms indicate decreased bone marrow function and increased vulnerability to infection.
- Pain, swelling or redness at the injection site
- Constipation or abdominal pain
- Cough or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain, numbness or tingling
Less serious side effects include:
- Minor feelings of fatigue
- Hair loss
- Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and diarrhea
- Inflammation or soreness inside the mouth or on the lips
All side effects should be reported to your doctor immediately to determine their seriousness.
It's very important to note that while you are being treated with Navelbine, you are much more vulnerable to infections. It is also best to try and avoid contact with people who have colds, flu and other contagious conditions.
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