Drugs against lung cancer.  Traditional methods of treating lung cancer

03.09.2016 7552

Chemotherapy is the internal administration of drugs during the development of cancer. This method is usually used in difficult cases or when it is impossible to carry out surgical intervention. It is worth noting that this method has Negative influence on the human condition, and therefore is used at stages 3-4 of the disease, when metastasis processes occur. This treatment method is also used when metastases appear in the lymph nodes and circulatory system.

Chemotherapy method for lung cancer

The use of chemotherapy to treat cancer ensures that the required medicinal substances into the blood. Thanks to this, it is possible to fully cover circulatory system and fight cancer cells. Moreover, this can be done both inside and outside the lungs. Selected drugs should be paired with each other to make the therapy effective.

Chemotherapy drugs are used on early stage treatment, after therapy and during the recovery period. Chemical substances are selected individually - this is determined by the characteristics of the body. Timely use of medications helps reduce.

The duration of the course directly depends on the form of the disease, its stage, the presence of metastases, and the patient’s condition. For some patients, daily administration of the drugs is indicated, for others they are prescribed once every few days. Treatment for lung cancer can last from 1 to 6 months. During therapy, you can change the course depending on the indications.

In the small cell form of the disease, a recovery course is prescribed after identifying the location of the tumor formation. This process is also influenced by the stage of development, histological features, types of disease.

As a rule, pathology has two forms:

1. Localized - according to statistics, it gives a fairly high chance of complete recovery.
2. Common - in this case, a broader course of therapy is required.

Chemotherapy drugs can be injected into the body different ways– oral or intravenous.

When prescribing chemotherapy, the following features should be taken into account:

• gender and age of a person - this affects the course of treatment and the required volume of drugs;
• location and dimensions malignant formation– it is necessary to carry out detailed diagnostics to identify pathological cells;
• do a histological examination;
• determine the stage of the disease.

Chemotherapy drugs

For the action to be as effective as possible, it is very important to correctly determine the form of the disease. Thus, small cell cancer has a hidden course, early appearance metastases and an unfavorable prognosis for life. This form has the most aggressive course. As a rule, when a tumor is detected, cancer processes spread beyond the lungs.

Chemotherapy for lung cancer has a fairly good effect. Medications may be given before surgery to increase its effectiveness. Also, this method of therapy is often prescribed after surgical intervention to deal with the remaining malignant cells. As additional method Radiation therapy is often used for treatment.

Usually, positive results A combination of the following drugs can achieve this:

• carboplatin and etoposide;
• cisplatin and etoposide;
• carboplatin and gemcitabine.

If there is a relapse of the disease, the following combinations of drugs can be used:

• CAV – cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine;
• ACE – cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and etoposide.

Patients who cannot receive injections are prescribed cytostatic agent topotecan in capsule form.

In addition to this, there is non-small cell cancer– this category includes squamous and large cell forms of the disease. Adenocarcinoma also belongs to this group. These varieties are combined into one category, but each of them is characterized by specific symptoms and treatment options.

Chemotherapy for this form of lung cancer is prescribed in the following situations:

1. before performing an operation;
2. after intervention to prevent exacerbation;
3. with a strong spread of tumor formations in late stages;
4. simultaneously with radiation therapy;
5. before or after irradiation.

This type of disease requires the combined use of cisplatin or carboplatin with the following categories of drugs:

1. gemcitabine;
2. vinorelbine;
3. doxorubicin;
4. taxol;
5. pemetrexed;
6. etoposide;
7. Taxotere.

Side effects

Chemotherapy drugs for lung cancer destroy cancer cells, but they have a negative effect on healthy tissue. Therefore, this method of therapy can provoke the following reactions:

• disturbances in intestinal function;
• vomit;
• nausea;
• dermatitis;
• phlebitis;
• inflammation Bladder;
• allergic reaction;
• hair loss.

Quite often, problems with hematopoiesis are a complication of this technique. To detect this disorder, a blood test should be done weekly. Also quite serious medical problem the emergence of resistance to chemotherapy is considered.

To minimize the side effects of therapy, today a new anticancer drug is being developed that has a targeted effect. He must distinguish pathological formations, taking into account the characteristics of their development.

Lung cancer is very dangerous disease, which can lead to fatal outcome. Therefore, the use of chemotherapy can be a real chance to save a person’s life and health. For therapy to be as effective as possible, it must be started as early as possible. To do this, it is recommended to regularly undergo preventive examinations and consult a doctor if any suspicious symptoms appear.

Malignant lung damage occurs from the epithelium of the bronchi of different sizes. Depending on the location, central and peripheral cancer are distinguished. Its treatment depends on the stage of detection, type and characteristics of spread. When choosing tablets, the doctor takes into account not only the characteristics of the disease, but also the condition of the patient’s body.

Drug therapy involves the use large doses various drugs. It is most often prescribed in the early stages of small cell cancer. This is explained by this form extremely aggressive. Platinum preparations, vinca alkaloids, Fluorouracil, Adriamycin and others are used as antitumor agents. Chemotherapy can be combined with radiation exposure. IN mandatory it is carried out before surgical treatment and after it. It pauses active growth and proliferation of malignant cells.

Effective pills for lung cancer:

• Prednisolone – glucocorticosteroid
• Carboplatin, Cyclophosphamide – antineoplastic substance
• Hydroxycarbamide – antitumor agent

Most drugs cause side effects. To relieve them, the patient is prescribed an antiemetic and anti-nausea medicine.

The main feature of lung cancer is pronounced musculoskeletal painful sensations. Early and rapid metastasis requires effective pain relief. For these purposes, opioid drugs (Morphine, Tramadol, Promedol), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Indomethacin) and others are prescribed. The use of these medications should not be long-term, as they have blocking properties and can therefore be addictive. In order to prevent drug addiction, the doctor periodically changes the main set of anti-cancer drugs and pain relief methods.

Avastin

Humanized antitumor agent with monoclonal antibodies. Avastin reduces the risk of metastasis and progression cancer. Pharmacological group of the drug – antitumor agents, used for the treatment of malignant neoplasms.

Available in the form of concentrates for the preparation of infusion solutions of 100 mg/4 ml and 400 mg/16 ml. The composition of the product includes the active ingredient - bevacizumab and auxiliary components– polysorbate, sodium hydrogen phosphate and sodium dihydrogen phosphate, sterile water and α-trehalose dihydrate.

• Indications for use: lung cancer (non-small cell, recurrent, with metastases, inoperable), cancer colon, colorectal cancer with metastases, pancreatic tumors, malignant diseases in mammology with metastases, ovarian cancer, prostate gland, peritoneum, fallopian tube, kidneys and their primary relapses.
• The solution is administered intravenously, in a stream; painful infusions are contraindicated. The first dose is administered within 1.5 hours, further procedures are reduced to half an hour. The therapy is long-term; if the disease progresses against the background, the treatment is stopped. Consider the standard dosage for various types cancer:
  • Lung cancer (non-small cell, recurrent, with metastases, inoperable) – 7.5-15 mg/kg, once every 21 days.
  • Colorectal cancer with metastases (first and second line) – 5-7.5 mg/kg, every 14 or 21 days.
  • Malignant diseases in mammology with metastases – 10-15 mg/kg, every 14 or 21 days.
  • Hepatocellular oncology – 10 mg/kg, every 14 days.
  • Epithelial cancer of the ovary and fallopian tube, primary cancer peritoneum, fallopian tube cancer (first line of therapy and metastasis) - 15 mg/kg, injections are carried out once every 21 days.
• Side effects: various infections, hemorrhages, gastrointestinal perforation, diarrhea and constipation, dehydration, hypertension, pulmonary hemorrhages, sepsis, rectal bleeding, hemoptysis, drowsiness, headaches, asthenia, stomatitis, leukopenia, myalgia, inflammation of the mucous membranes, anorexia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, thrombocytopenia, dry skin, vomiting, taste changes, shortness of breath, lacrimation, stroke and much more.
• Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components, pregnancy (impairs fetal angiogenesis) and lactation.

• Any interactions with other drugs must be discussed with your doctor. At simultaneous use Avastin with platinum preparations increases the risk of neutropenia, infectious complications and possible death.
• Overdose: severe attacks migraines, exacerbation of adverse reactions. To eliminate these reactions, symptomatic therapy, there is no specific antidote.

Vials with Avastin concentrate must be stored at a temperature of 2-8 degrees; freezing or shaking is contraindicated. Shelf life 24 months.

Taxotere

Antineoplastic agent, alkaloid obtained by chemical semisynthesis from European yew. Taxotere is responsible for the accumulation of tubulin in cell nuclei, preventing the breakdown of tubulin tubes during cancer cell division. This provokes the death of malignant cells. The drug is intended for intravenous administration, 95% conjugates with blood plasma proteins.

The medicine is available in the form infusion solution in glass bottles of 200 and 500 ml. The solution has an oily consistency yellow color. One bottle contains 40 mg of docetaxel trihydrate, the auxiliary components are: water for injection, polysorbate, nitrogen and others.

• Indications for use: non-small cell lung cancer with metastases (in the absence of positive effect from previous chemotherapy), malignant breast lesions, ovarian carcinoma, hormone-resistant forms of prostate cancer and their metastatic types.
• Method of administration and dosage: treatment is carried out in a hospital setting. For lung cancer, Taxotere is administered at a dose of 75 mg/m2 for 30 hours to half an hour, after a preliminary infusion of cisplatin. If treatment with platinum drugs is ineffective, then Taxotere is used without additional drugs. For tumors of the mammary glands, 100 mg/m2 of the patient’s body area is prescribed. For prostate lesions with metastases, 75 mg/m2. Infusions are carried out every three weeks, the course of treatment is determined by the severity of the clinical response and the tolerability of the medication by the patient.
• Side effects: most often patients experience headaches and dizziness, neutropenia, secondary infections, and anemia. Possible stomatitis, diarrhea, severe dyspeptic syndrome, myalgia and alopecia. A month after drug administration, some patients experienced peripheral edema caused by increased capillary permeability, arrhythmia, weight gain or anorexia.
• Contraindications: severe hypersensitivity to active substances renal failure, neutropenia. Not used during pregnancy and lactation. When treating women childbearing age, patients should use contraception.
• Interaction with other drugs: Doxorubicin increases the clearance of tablets, Ketoconazole, Erythromycin, Cyclosporine inhibit metabolism by cross-blocking cytochrome P450-3A.
• Overdose: symptoms of stomatitis, peripheral neuropathies, inhibition of hematopoiesis appear. To eliminate them, symptomatic therapy and dynamic monitoring of body functions are indicated.

Doxorubicin

Antitumor medicine from pharmacological group anthracycline antibiotics. Doxorubicin has a mechanism of action based on inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis and DNA binding. Intended for intravenous administration, does not penetrate the BBB, is biotransformed in the liver, and is excreted unchanged with bile.

• Indications for use: malignant lung lesions, soft tissue sarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, osteogenic sarcoma, lymphoblastic leukemia, neuroblastoma, bladder tumors, stomach, ovarian, thyroid and breast cancer, trophoblastic tumors, lymphogranulomatosis. The dosage and duration of treatment are individual for each patient and depend on the indications for use of the drug.
• Contraindications: anemia, diseases of the cardiovascular system, hepatitis, pregnancy and breast-feeding, thrombocytopenia, severe leukopenia. Not used to treat patients with full cumulative dosage of other anthracyclines or anthracenes.
• Side effects occur in many organs and systems, but most often patients experience the following reactions: anemia, leukopenia, heart failure, arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, thrombocytopenia, stomatitis, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, amenorrhea, skin allergic reactions, sharp increase fever, alopecia, nephropathy. Also possible local reactions: tissue necrosis, vascular sclerosis.
• The medicine is prescribed with extreme caution to patients with chicken pox, a history of cardiovascular diseases, herpes zoster and other infectious diseases. Doxorubicin may cause urine to turn red in the first days of treatment.

Erlotinib

Antitumor agent, tyrosine kinase inhibitor of epidermal growth factor receptors HER1/EGFR. Erlotinib is available in tablet form with the active ingredient erlotinib. After oral administration, the drug is rapidly absorbed, the maximum concentration in the blood plasma is reached after 4 hours, bioavailability is 59% (increases with food). Excreted in feces and urine.

• Indications for use: metastatic non-small cell and locally advanced lung cancer (can be used after previous failed chemotherapy regimens), metastatic and locally advanced inoperable tumors pancreas (used in combination with Gemcitabine).
• Directions for use and dosage: take the tablet once a day, an hour before meals or 2 hours after. For lung lesions, 150 mg is prescribed daily for a long period of time. For pancreatic cancer - 100 mg in combination with gemcitabine. If the drug causes symptoms of disease progression, then treatment is stopped.
• Contraindications: pregnancy and lactation, hypersensitivity to the active ingredient and other components of the tablets. It is prescribed with extreme caution for the treatment of patients under 18 years of age and with impaired liver function.
• Side effects: gastrointestinal bleeding, liver dysfunction, stomatitis, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain. From the outside respiratory system possible reactions such as shortness of breath, nose bleed, cough, pulmonary infiltration, fibrosis. On the part of the visual organs – conjunctivitis, increased lacrimation. Attacks of headaches, dry skin, itching, and allergic skin reactions are also possible.
• Overdose is possible when taking higher doses. Adverse symptoms most often manifest themselves in the form of dermatological reactions, diarrhea, and increased activity of liver transaminases. To treat them, it is necessary to stop taking the drug and carry out symptomatic therapy.

If Erlotinib is used with Ketoconazole and other inhibitors of the CYP3A4 isoenzyme, a decrease in the metabolism of the anticancer drug and an increase in its concentration in the blood plasma are observed. Rifampicin increases the metabolism of the main drug and reduces its concentration in the blood plasma. When interacting with coumarin derivatives and Warfarin, gastrointestinal bleeding and an increase in INR occur.

Afatinib

Protein kinase inhibitor, an effective antitumor agent. Afatinib is a selective, irreversible protein tyrosine kinase receptor blocker. After oral administration, it is quickly and completely absorbed; food intake does not affect its concentration in the blood plasma. Metabolic reactions are catalyzed by enzymes and excreted in urine and feces.

• Indications for use: monotherapy for locally advanced and metastatic non-small cell lung cancer with epidermal growth receptor mutations. Dosage depends on the stage pathological process. With standard therapy, take 40 mg of Afatinib 1 time per day, maximum daily dose– 50 mg. The tablets must be taken one hour before meals or 3 hours after them.
• Contraindications: intolerance to the components of the drug, severe violations liver functions, pregnancy and lactation, patients under 18 years of age. Use with extreme caution for keratitis (ulcerative), interstitial lung disease, heart pathologies, galactose intolerance, severe dry eyes.
• Side effects: most often patients experience problems with taste sensitivity, conjunctivitis, nosebleeds, and stomatitis. Possible attacks of nausea and vomiting, constipation, increased bilirubin, liver failure, skin allergic reactions, muscle spasms, various infections.
• Overdose occurs when the dosage prescribed by the doctor is exceeded. Most often, patients encounter gastrointestinal disorders, skin allergic rashes, headaches and dizziness, nausea and vomiting, increased amylase levels. There is no specific antidote, so symptomatic therapy and drug withdrawal are indicated.

Crizotinib

Crizotinib is a hepatocyte growth factor receptor inhibitor. It has selective inhibitory activity and induces apoptosis of malignant cells. The anticancer effect is dose-dependent and is associated with the severity of pharmacological inhibition. The drug is available in capsules with the active ingredient – ​​crizotinib 200 mg.

After a single dose on an empty stomach, the maximum concentration in the blood plasma is achieved after 4-6 hours. Bioavailability 43%, metabolized by CYP3A4/5 isoenzymes, excreted in urine and feces.

• Indications for use: advanced non-small cell lung cancer expressing anaplastic lymphoma kinase. The tablets are taken orally with water. The recommended standard dosage is 250 mg twice daily. The course of treatment is long until positive results of therapy are obtained. If necessary, the doctor adjusts the dosage.
• Contraindications: hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, impaired liver and kidney function, pregnancy and lactation, patients under 18 years of age. Not used simultaneously with strong inducers of the CYP3A enzyme. It is prescribed with special caution for patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system, for elderly patients and for electrolyte imbalances.
• Side effects are manifested by a number of unfavorable symptoms from many organs and systems. Most often, patients complain of attacks of nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, increased swelling and fatigue. There may also be attacks of bradycardia, blurred vision, neutropenia, decreased appetite, skin allergic reactions, infections of the upper respiratory tract and urinary system. Overdose has similar symptoms. There is no specific antidote, so symptomatic therapy and gastric lavage are indicated.

Ceritinib

Tableted antitumor drug with active ingredient - ceritinib, auxiliary components: magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, titanium dioxide and others. After entering the body, active ingredient finds cancer cells and destroys mutagenic protein, preventing damage to healthy tissues and tumor growth.

The maximum concentration in blood plasma is achieved 4-6 hours after application. If the drug is used 2 hours after a meal, its effect on the body increases and the risk of adverse reactions decreases. It is excreted 41 hours after application, in urine and feces.

• Indications for use: non-small cell lung cancer with positive anaplastic lymphoma kinases. Can be used as monotherapy if previously used drugs are ineffective.
• Directions for use and dosage: tablets are taken only according to medical prescription. Standard dose 750 mg per day, two hours before meals or two hours after. Do not chew the capsules, swallow them whole with water. The course of treatment lasts until signs of cancer appear.
• Contraindications: individual intolerance components of the product, the age of patients under 18 years of age, pregnancy and lactation.
• Adverse reactions: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches and dizziness, increased urination, increased blood sugar, bradycardia, decreased appetite, dermatological reactions (itching, burning, rashes).

Headings

Lung cancer medications prescribed by your doctor are very important in controlling the disease. The share of this pathology in Russian Federation accounts for 15% of all types of malignant diseases.

In fact, the disease is the most common among oncological diseases. In 80% of cases, this disease affects heavy smokers. Moreover, pathology is registered most often in men. Currently, specialists are developing new drugs and medical technologies to treat the disease. However, a cure for cancer that would result in complete recovery has not yet been invented. Therefore, mortality from this type of cancer remains high. In 85% of cases, medicine is powerless.

As mentioned above, with active smoking, the likelihood of getting cancer increases several times. In addition, the occurrence of the disease is influenced by professional working conditions, for example, work in which one has to come into contact with radioactive elements or carcinogenic substances for a long time. Not the least role is played by transferred infectious diseases lungs: fibrosis, tuberculosis.

Symptoms and types of lung cancer

Lung cancer can be central or peripheral. It depends on which area of ​​the organ is affected by the tumor. In its structure it can be squamous, small cell or large cell. About 50% of cases belong to the first option. Depending on these parameters, choose medications. Pathology has different symptoms, which directly depend on the size of the tumor, the type of metastases and various complications. Central cancer manifests itself in the form of cough, shortness of breath and hemoptysis. At peripheral cancer Hoarseness and aphonia are possible. If the tumor has affected the right lung, swelling appears on the person’s face and the neck swells. In addition, drowsiness, weakness, fainting occur, and nausea occurs.

If the disease is diagnosed at an early stage, treatment is carried out through surgery. One or more tumors are removed lung lobe. IN as a last resort the entire organ is removed. Sometimes it is impossible to quickly remove a tumor if there are contraindications. The cause is respiratory, cardiac, renal or liver failure. In addition, surgery is not performed if the patient is sick diabetes mellitus or he had early heart attack myocardium. In such cases, the tumor is combated using radiation therapy.

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Lung cancer drugs and chemotherapy method

Chemotherapy involves treating pathology with a large dose of drugs. It is prescribed if small cell cancer is diagnosed. This approach is explained by the fact that this type The disease is extremely aggressive, and its suppression requires powerful antitumor agents. Such drugs include distributed platinum supplements, Adriamycin, Vepesid, Fluorouracil and vinca alkaloids. In order for chemotherapy treatment to be most effective, radioactive irradiation of the tumor is used along with it. When using both methods, the growth of the tumor stops, as cancer cells stop multiplying. And if you use potent drugs, such as Avatsin, Taxotere and others, you can achieve excellent therapeutic results.

With metastases, pain is a concern. At lung cancer severe musculoskeletal pain is noted. The appearance of metastases forces the patient to take strong painkillers. These include drugs of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory group (Ibuprofen and others), drugs of the opioid narcotic group (Morphine, Tramadol, Promedol). In addition, cyclooxygenase-2 blocking drugs are used, which include Celecoxib. Drugs included in this group, have side effects on the gastric mucosa, bleeding is possible. Moreover long-term use We do not recommend such drugs, since the blocking properties are lost due to the body’s addiction. To avoid this, medications and methods of pain relief are periodically changed.

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Treatment with radiotherapy

Radiotherapy involves irradiating the area where the tumor is located with ionizing radiation. This method used only after surgery. Used in the form self-treatment if the patient is diagnosed with an inoperable form of lung cancer. In some cases, patients themselves refuse surgical intervention, so radiation therapy in such cases is most likely forced.

Focused X-rays or gamma radiation affects the affected area. Cancer cells, which have great miotic activity, are susceptible to radiation. It negatively affects the DNA of malignant cells, thereby disrupting the process of their reproduction and growth. With this method of treatment tumor cells do not have the opportunity to recover, and the size of the tumor itself is significantly reduced.

It is worth noting that modern medical oncology is constantly improving radiotherapy devices, and dosimetry methods are actively developing. The use of the latest technologies makes it possible to increase the effectiveness of radiation therapy and reduce the damage that radiation causes to healthy tissue. Such a new technology is ablative radiation doses. A special knife directs the radiation from high accuracy. Thanks to this, healthy tissues are not exposed to radiation. However, such Newest technologies are not yet used in all medical institutions.

Therefore, it is worth recalling the side effects that occur after radiotherapy. For example, many patients complain of high fatigue and general weakness throughout the body. After a course of radiation therapy, patients need more time to night sleep and day rest. It is important to note that experts advise patients not to be passive and to be active. In addition, hair may fall out, irritation appears on the skin, appetite decreases, and the esophagus becomes inflamed.

IN modern world The number of lung cancer patients is steadily growing every year. This terrible disease spares no one. In most cases, chemotherapy is used to treat lung cancer, which targets harmful cells. For this purpose they are used strong medications, taken both intravenously, intramuscularly, and in the form of tablets. Treatment is selected by the doctor individually for each patient.

The drugs prescribed for chemotherapy are prescribed either as a complex or one at a time, but on different levels, are used in different combinations and are subjective for each case.

Drugs for the treatment of lung cancer

The most popular drugs for chemotherapy are:

1. Irinotecan;
2. Paclitaxel;
3. Topotecan;
4. Erlotinib;
5. Naibol Pemetrexed;
6. Gefinitib.

Gefinitib is enough famous medicine. Despite extensive advertising By high rates effectiveness, studies have shown that this drug does not increase survival. Recommendations for use are to prohibit sudden cessation of use.

Bevacizumab is used intravenously and helps stop the growth of cancer cells. Considered highly effective. IN joint use with drugs such as Paclitaxel and Carboplatin shows good results.

It is worth noting that anti-vomiting drugs are also added to chemotherapy. The doctor selects the optimal treatment and the most gentle medications.

British scientists have carried out testing and development for many years, thanks to which a new generation drug has emerged. Essentially, it is a hybrid of two drugs - Vandetanib and Selumetinib. The principle of their action is to block the nutrition of cancer cells. The lack of additional sources for growth and existence suppresses the viability of infected cells and contributes to their death. The drug is currently being tested in humans. For this purpose, forty people with different stages of lung cancer were selected. Currently, tests show only positive results.

ASD fraction 2

The drug ASD fraction 2 has recently become widely known. This is based on the results this drug has produced in veterinary medicine when used in animals with cancer.

It is worth noting! Currently, faction ASD 2 does not have a license from the Ministry of Health for use in humans. However, there is a myth that this drug cured lung cancer in Lavrentiy’s mother Beria.

Faction ASD 2 appeared in 1947, in the USSR. It was developed at the All-Union Institute of Experimental Veterinary Medicine. The drug is based on subjected high temperature frog tissue, subsequently replaced with meat and bone meal.

The developer was a scientist named Dorogov, after whom the medicine was named: antiseptic - Dorogov stimulant (ASD). A special characteristic of the drug is its wound-healing function.

In modern medicine, the drug ASD faction 2 is made from animal tissues that have a long lifespan. The structure of the drug is similar to the structure of a cell, it easily penetrates tissue and maintains hormones at a certain level. In general, the effect of this medicine on the body is positive.

The main advantage is maintaining immune system, fighting cancer cells, restoring the body’s ability to resist disease, lack side effects. Application is possible both internally and externally.

Among the shortcomings - strong bad smell and the need to use large quantities liquids.

Do not forget that the drug is not approved for use in human treatment, and responsibility for its use lies strictly with the patient.

Dexamethasone for lung cancer

When used effectively to reduce weakness. Sriram Yennurajalingam from the University of Texas conducted research showing that there was a significant difference when taking placebo or dexamethasone.

The study involved 94 cancer patients of a certain category. They had more than three symptoms of lung cancer frailty and a score of four out of ten on the Edmont Symptom Scale. The subjects were divided into two groups of 41 and 43 people.

The first group was given a placebo, and the second was given dexamethasone. The drug and placebo were administered for two weeks. The results showed that the group in which the drug was used showed significantly higher results in improving fatigue status against the background chronic diseases, as well as improving the quality of life.

After two weeks the level physical condition patients taking dexamethasone became significantly better than those taking placebo. These studies provide an opportunity for lung cancer patients to beat cancer-related frailty rates.

Pain reliever for lung cancer

One of the most serious companions of oncology is pain. It appears, as a rule, at the third or fourth stage of the disease. Drugs for the treatment of lung cancer with an analgesic effect are aimed at prolonging the period of physical and mental activity of the patient. The cause of pain most often lies in the growth of the tumor, but it can also be a side effect of the treatment. A properly selected painkiller will quickly relieve pain.

The following painkillers for lung cancer are used to reduce pain:

• adjuvant agents in combination with non-narcotic analgesic;
• adjuvant agents in combination with a non-narcotic analgesic and a weak opioid of the codeine group;
• adjuvant agents in combination with a non-narcotic analgesic and a strong opioid of the morphine group.

Non-narcotic analgesics are aimed at suppressing mild to moderate pain. Severe pain is blocked by narcotic analgesics.

Basic rules for taking medications:

• the medicine is prescribed by the doctor based on individual characteristics the patient, as well as the severity of the pain;
• medications must be taken after a strictly defined period of time, regardless of pain;
• reception scale - from weak to strong;
• use of tablets, suppositories, drops.

Initiation of therapy involves taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. For example, Ibuprofen, Piroxicam, etc. They block slight pain, and using them with narcotic drugs will help cope with severe pain.

When increasing pain syndrome a weak opiate is administered. For example, codeine. Sometimes I use a combination of codeine and aspirin. Strong pain docked drugs, such as morphine, buprenorphine, whose action is aimed at the central nervous system. However, often such therapy does not bring results and the pain becomes unbearable. In this case, it is carried out complex treatment with the indicated drugs, and also a scheme of replacing one drug with another is used.

So, in our time, lung cancer is one of the most dangerous cancer diseases. Hundreds of scientists around the world are working on the development of a drug that can cure a deadly disease. Lately In pharmaceuticals, drugs are increasingly appearing that can prolong life, and, in other cases, cause remission of the disease.

The use of any medication must be carried out with the permission of a doctor in strict accordance with his dosage recommendations, the same measure applies to the use of painkillers.

Informative video

Lung cancer is the most common disease among other cancers. Its mortality rate exceeds 80%.

Active smokers, as well as people suffering from tuberculosis and other diseases, are at risk. pulmonary diseases. Men are more often affected than women.

Not everyone, even innovative drugs, can cope with this terrible illness. It is not for nothing that oncology is considered the plague of the 21st century.

Types of medicines

Despite this, it is necessary to treat this pathology and cures for lung cancer exist. Many researchers and scientists are working on new drugs to completely eradicate the disease. The choice of treatment method depends on the location and size of the tumor, the patient's condition, stage and type of cancer. Let's consider what types of treatment and medications for the treatment of lung cancer are applicable in our time.

In the first stages of detection, the tumor, either part of it or the entire lung, is removed. This operation is prescribed when the tumor is small and has not yet spread to other organs.

The operation has varieties:

• Pulmonectomy – the entire lung is removed;
• – only part of the lung is removed.

Before cancer removal you need to take a test necessary tests to ensure that the patient is fit to undergo surgery. There are contraindications under which surgery cannot be performed. These include:

• diabetes;
• heart, liver or kidney failure;
• myocardial infarction.

If such diseases are present, another type of treatment, such as chemotherapy, is given.

Chemotherapy drugs

Chemotherapy is one of the main and most effective methods treatment of this disease. It stops the growth of cancer cells. But at the same time, the drugs negatively affect a number of organs and the body as a whole. Such drugs are introduced into a person's blood and can act and spread throughout the body.

The doctor prescribes an individual course of procedures and medications for each patient after passing all the necessary tests. A break is necessary after each course of chemotherapy, since this is a lot of stress for the body, it will have to recover through certain time.

There are many types of drugs that are used in practice. Drugs for the treatment of lung cancer, which are used in parallel with chemotherapy, are divided into two main types depending on the form of release: tablets and injectable medications, which are administered intravenously.

The most common names among them are:

• Carboplatin;
• Vinorelbine;
• Paclitaxel;
• Docetaxes.

Medicines also for better effect used in pairs as prescribed by the attending physician. Doctors prescribe a treatment regimen individually for each patient. Cancer cells quickly get used to the drugs, so after a certain time they are alternated and new ones are used. If side effects occur, doctors prescribe additional medications.

Chemotherapy may be combined with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy. The result directly depends on the stage of development of the disease and its course.

Chemotherapy has a number of features. This disease occurs with cancer of the skin and mucous membranes, in the presence of moles and papillomas that grow quickly. The disease occurs due to skin cancer. For treatment, medications are prescribed such as:

Often drugs are used in combination. With a competent approach to treatment, this method gives sick people hope for full recovery.

Hormonal drugs against cancer

Oncological diseases can be both male and female. Their development depends on sex hormones: testosterone and estrogen. The main task of drugs is to reduce and block their growth. This type of therapy changes the amount of hormones for the prevention and treatment of cancer. This therapy will only be effective if the cancer is hormone sensitive.

Treatment is divided into:

• surgical;
• radiation;
• medicinal.

At initial stage use surgical method, and the tumor is removed. If there are a number of contraindications, radiation and drug treatment are used.

The choice depends on the patient’s condition, age and hormone levels.

When choosing a type of treatment, you should definitely consult with a specialist and find best option. The quality of treatment depends on the amount of hormones in women and men.

Medicines that reduce pain

Lung cancer is highly painful sensations. This fact forces doctors to prescribe painkillers to the patient. These include: Tramadol, Acetaminophen, Omnopon, Morphine and other painkillers for cancer. Some drugs are used independently, others in combination with others.

The use of cyclooxygenase-2 blockers is often practiced, which do not have side effects such as bleeding, effects on the stomach, and others. Although the body often gets used to this type of treatment. And periodic medications need to be rotated and replaced.

The main scheme used to reduce pain is:

If the pain does not go away, additional research to identify their causes and prescribe treatment.

Antiviral and antitumor drugs for cancer treatment

Immunotherapy is becoming more and more common, as better body fights viruses, the stronger it becomes, the more more likely overcome the disease. This type of treatment is used in cases where the disease occurred under the influence of viruses and infections. This is especially true for pulmonary oncology. The body is weakened and needs additional support and assistance from outside.

To increase the body's immune resistance, drugs containing interferon are used. It helps increase the body's resistance, inhibit the development of viruses, and also completely destroys them.

Today there are many medications that combat this problem. There are different groups of drugs, ranging from vincalcaloids to anthracyclines. The choice depends on the patient's condition, age and degree of illness.

This type of drug has a narrow spectrum of action, so you need to know their interaction with other drugs, as well as the mechanism of action.

Innovative drugs for immunotherapy of lung cancer

Exist the latest drugs to fight the disease. Their essence is to stimulate the immune system and direct it against the disease. The advantage is that they can be used at all stages of oncology.

Introduced into the human body biological substances, such as:

• monoclonal antibodies;
• cytokines.

After which they begin to fight malignant tumors. If the tumor stops growing, it means the drugs have worked.

This type of treatment can be combined with others to achieve better results. The best doctors are working on this issue modern medicine. In addition, scientists have produced a new drug that destroys cancer. It consists of a mixture of two drugs: Vandetanib and Selumetinib.

Researchers believe that the medicine should help at all stages of the disease, when regular injections and antibiotics are powerless. Even though this the latest tools, and they are only being tested, there is hope for a complete recovery of patients. Side effects when using drugs may be as follows:

To restore strength you need to take antiviral drugs and iron. In a number of some complex cases patients receive blood transfusions.

The problem must be taken seriously. Oncology needs to be treated comprehensively. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced doctor, as well as a well-equipped clinic with new equipment and competent staff.