Can chemotherapy cure lung cancer? The use of chemotherapy for lung cancer: how to treat pathology with this method? Therapeutic measures for lung cancer

Today, lung cancer is considered the most common oncological pathology with a high degree of mortality. Previously, this disease was the prerogative of people of the older age group, but now cancer is “younger”. Modern diagnostic methods make it possible to detect the disease at an early stage, which greatly facilitates the treatment process. In lung cancer, an integrated approach is used, which includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. Chemotherapy for lung cancer is highly effective and significantly increases the chances of recovery.

What is lung cancer

Every year, up to a million cases of lung cancer are diagnosed worldwide. The statistics regarding a positive prognosis are disappointing - 6 fatal episodes per 10 cases. On the territory of the Russian Federation, this figure is 12% of the total morbidity, while mortality is 15% of all detected cases.

Lung cancer is prevalent predominantly among the male population. Oncologists explain this distribution by the causes that led to the pathological process - smoking.

The classification is based on the localization of the pathological focus:

• central - located in the lumen of the large bronchi in the roots of the lung. As it develops, it leads to complete overlap, as a result, the lung cannot function normally;
• peripheral - an extremely dangerous option, since it occupies the area along the edge of the lung fields, remains “dumb” for a very long time, makes itself felt only with a significant increase in size;
• massive - a combined lesion with both options.

Stages of cancer development

There are 4 main stages in the development of the lung cancer process, while the third is divided into 2 subtypes:

1. Zero. At an early stage, the formation of pathological cells occurs, which are not determined by instrumental methods. Clinical manifestations in the zero stage are not detected.
2. First. The most favorable for the appointment of therapy, since treatment during this period can bring the maximum positive effect. The size of the focus does not exceed three centimeters in maximum length. Reactions of regional lymph nodes are not noted. Cancer is detected at the first stage in only 10%, which determines the importance of annual fluorographic examinations.
3. Second. The size of the tumor node varies in the range from 3 to 5 centimeters, which allows them to be visualized on x-rays. Accompanied by specific complaints - cough, hemoptysis, syndromes from the cardiovascular system, weight loss, increased fatigue.
4. Stage 3a. The size of the tumor increases, which leads to an increase in symptoms. Involvement of lymph nodes of a mediastinum is noted. The favorable prognosis is about 30%.
5. Stage 3b. Metastases appear both in the lung itself and in the vertebrae of the thoracic region, ribs, and sternum. May be accompanied by pathological fractures.
6. Fourth. Multiple foci of dropouts that spread hematogenously. The chances of recovery are minimal, so chemotherapy may often not be prescribed for stage 4 lung cancer. In such a situation resort to symptomatic treatment (palliative).

Based on this division, oncologists select the type of therapy.

Therapeutic measures for lung cancer

Early diagnosis provides a favorable prognosis for cure. For this purpose, a screening method is used - fluorography. If a pathological focus is detected, they are sent for an additional examination - computed tomography. If the fact of cancer according to CT data is confirmed, then the next step is histology in order to determine the type of cells.

Based on the results of all studies, a complex of therapeutic measures is being created. The main methods for lung cancer are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It is an integrated approach with the use of all techniques that can give a positive effect.

Surgical treatment of lung cancer

The purpose of the operation is to remove the maximum volume of the tumor node in order to reduce compression on adjacent tissues. To achieve a significant effect, it is always combined with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

There are several approaches to surgical intervention (laparoscopically, transthoracically), which depend on the type, size and location of the tumor.

Chemotherapy

It is the main treatment for cancer. The mechanism of action of drugs is based on a massive effect on the cellular apparatus of the tumor with its destruction. Depending on the combination with the surgical approach, chemotherapy for lung cancer is of three types:

1. Neoadjuvant, which is prescribed before surgery. Designed to destroy tumor cells, stop metastasis.
2. Adjuvant, used after surgery or radiation therapy for the final elimination of the remaining elements of cancer.
3. Targeted - a high-precision technique based on a targeted effect on the node with inhibition of growth and division. There is also a restriction of the blood supply to the cancer. The technique can be used both as an independent therapy and in combination with other options.

Indications and contraindications for chemotherapy

The conditions for choosing such an approach are:

• localization of the node and the degree of impact on the surrounding tissues;
• the types of cells that formed the tumor;
• the presence of intraorgan and distant metastases;
• lymph node response.

Leukemia, rhabdomyosarcoma, hemoblastosis, chorioncarcinoma allow for a course of chemo for lung cancer.

Before starting treatment, the doctor assesses the risks, expected side effects. A well-designed course of chemotherapy increases the likelihood of a successful cure.

Contraindications for chemotherapy:

• thrombocytopenia;
• infectious diseases in the acute period;
• pregnancy, especially in the first trimester;
• renal, hepatic, heart failure;
• marked exhaustion.

The peculiarity of these contraindications is the possibility of correction. Therefore, the attending physician will initially remove the restrictions, and then begin specific chemotherapy treatment.

Drug Options During Chemotherapy

There are more than 60 options for drugs that are used during chemotherapy. The most common are Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Gemcitabine, Vinorelbine, Paclitaxel and Docetaxel. Most often create combinations of them.

The development of the science of oncology does not stand still; new cytostatic drugs are being created. It is possible that during the course of treatment you may be offered participation in clinical trials. Of course, you have the right to refuse.

Conditions for chemotherapy

Chemistry (cytostatics) for lung cancer is most often administered intravenously in a hospital setting. The doctor selects the regimen and dose, based on the histological appearance of the tumor, the stage of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient.

Upon completion of the course of chemotherapy, the patient is given a break for recovery for 2 weeks. Then the next course will follow, their number is determined by the protocol of therapy and effectiveness. Repeated conduct is due to the adaptive characteristics of cancer cells to the toxic effects of drugs. To smooth side effects, symptomatic therapy is prescribed.

There is also a tablet option for taking chemotherapy drugs. The advantage is that you can drink them on an outpatient basis.

Side effects

The effectiveness of this method is very high, especially with early detection. A feature of the drugs of the standard scheme is an indiscriminate effect on the cells of the body. Therefore, the consequences of chemotherapy for lung cancer are reflected in all systems:

• hematopoiesis (blood formation);
• violations of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract in the form of dyspeptic manifestations;
• a massive effect of drugs on all rapidly dividing cells (not just cancer cells) is accompanied by hair loss (alopecia);
• psycho-emotional disorders (depression);
• the addition of secondary infections due to a decrease in the protective functions of the body is not excluded.

It is important to understand that these manifestations are inevitable, they must be taken for granted. On the other hand, they are temporary. Quite often, after completing the courses, all physiological processes return to normal. This period in life must be experienced and in no case should the treatment be stopped.

palliative care

A new direction in the management of patients is palliative chemotherapy for lung cancer. This approach is used for a group of patients to whom all possible methods have been provided, but the process is constantly progressing. It is intended to improve the quality of life of inoperable patients by leveling pain syndromes, correcting the psycho-emotional background.

Radiotherapy

Based on the effect of a beam of gamma rays on the tumor process. At the same time, the death of cancer cells is noted due to cessation of growth and division. The rays affect not only the tumor itself, but also adjacent metastases, which gives a complex effect. The use of radiotherapy is also possible for small cell lung cancer. Recent medical advances in radiotherapy include:

• remote technique, when the impact is carried out using an external (outside the body) source of x-rays;
• high-dose technology, which is based on the introduction into the patient's body of a special source that generates rays.

The latest advancement is the RAPID Arc therapy. The peculiarity is the point impact exclusively on the cancer node, while healthy tissues are not damaged.. It is accompanied by visual control of the manipulation with the ability to adjust the flow intensity and direction angle. The application is limited by the prevalence of the process.

If the cancer goes beyond the lungs, then this technique is not carried out.

conclusions

Lung cancer is a terrible disease with a high mortality rate. It is impossible to cure this disease on your own. Expectant tactics are fraught with an increase in the tumor to the point where the methods of modern medicine cannot help.

Chemotherapy is a recognized and effective method of preventing the further development of oncology. Of course, it has a number of side effects, but the effectiveness successfully covers them.

There are over 60 types of chemotherapy drugs. The most common of these are cisplatin, carboplatin, gemcitabine, vinorelbine, paclitaxel, and docetaxel. Usually drugs are combined, for example:

carboplatin and paclitaxel
vinoreobin and cisplastin (or carboplatin)
gemcitabine and cyplastin (or carboplatin)
mitomycin, ifosfamide and cisplatin
etopoposit and carboplatin

3 stages

Having received a diagnosis of stage 3 lung cancer, the first chemotherapy is likely to be carried out in the near future. It is good if the procedure itself is scheduled for Thursday or Friday, so you will have the opportunity to relax over the weekend. This is important for one simple reason, chemotherapy can cause nausea, allergies, or other side effects.

Before your first chemotherapy, your doctor will need to review your tests, conduct research that will help you enter the program that is right for you. The nurse will need to measure your height and weight to determine the correct dose of medication. The readings of blood pressure, body temperature and pulse should also be known. After all these procedures, you will be placed under a drip to receive the drug itself, during the entire cycle of this therapy, the doctor must monitor the level of leukocytes in your blood.
Before you put a dropper, you should have a conversation about what drugs you need and can eliminate possible side effects.

After the injection of the chemotherapy drug into your bloodstream, the dropper is removed, after which you can go home. If, after the administered drug, a person has severe non-stop vomiting, the doctor should be informed about this.

Consequences

Any anti-cancer drug is toxic to the body. Medicine and pharmacology have not yet been able to obtain such a drug that would effectively destroy cancer cells and bypass healthy ones. Therefore, the most common side effects after chemotherapy for lung cancer are hair loss, nausea, and vomiting. How to deal with these symptoms is written above.

After chemotherapy for lung cancer, the patient needs to control the components of the blood for a long time, since the complications of the late period include inhibition of hematopoiesis.

Modern medicine offers a fairly wide selection of antiemetic drugs that perfectly relieve nausea. There are innovative methods of dealing with hair loss - consult your doctor and he will tell you what to do.

Nutrition after chemo

Patients undergoing chemotherapy also require special nutrition. All products listed above remain mandatory for consumption. Patients after chemotherapy are recommended table number 15 according to Pevzner. In addition to meat, as the main source of protein, the diet recommends milk porridge, not only yesterday's baked bread, but also fresh, as well as various muffins. Boiled sausages and sausages are also allowed, but not more than once a week.

In addition to diet number 15, you can use the Mediterranean diet, which contains a large amount of seafood. The Mediterranean diet is considered the most suitable for cancer patients, during and after chemotherapy. In general, you can choose any diet, the main thing is not to overeat. Abuse of food leads to the appearance of new tumors.

Some professors even recommend calorie restriction during the recovery period, as moderate nutrition contributes to the rapid recovery of the body. This theory is still at the research stage, but one thing is clear: only proper nutrition contributes to recovery, excluding the use of fried, too spicy and fatty foods.

Preparations

Some chemotherapy drugs are for oral use, while others must be administered intravenously. They can also be used alone or in combination with other anti-cancer agents.

Treatment of lung cancer is most often carried out with the help of such drugs:

Carboplatin;
Cisplatin;
Docetaxel;
Erlotinib;
Etoposide;
gemcitabine;
Irinotecan;
Vinorelbine;
Gefinitib;
Bevacizubam.

Gefinitib was actively used in oncology in the treatment of cancer a few years ago, but recent studies have shown that this drug does not increase the survival rate of cancer patients. Bevacizubam is an intravenous drug designed to prevent the formation of blood vessels that supply nutrients to the tumor. It has been proven that the use of Bevacizubam in combination with other anticancer drugs prolongs the life of cancer patients. It can be taken concomitantly with carboplatin and paclitaxel in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

How is it carried out

Chemotherapy is based on the administration of drugs to the patient that inhibit the growth of cancer cells. They, in turn, develop resistance to the drugs, so repeated courses of treatment are rarely effective. This is why chemotherapy for lung cancer now involves multiple drugs that cause the cells to fail to adapt.

The most common drug combinations are:

Paclitaxel and Carboplatin;
Vinorelbine and Cisplatin.

The drug is administered intravenously or orally. Most often resort to the use of the drip method of administration. The dosage is selected in accordance with the stage of development of the disease. After undergoing treatment, take a break for three weeks to restore the body.

Diet

There are no special diets for cancer patients. But nutrition during lung cancer chemotherapy should be complete and balanced. It is not recommended to consume fatty and spicy foods, as well as seasonings, onions and garlic while taking chemicals. To improve bowel function and replenish the body with vitamins, you need to eat more fruits, vegetables and freshly squeezed juices. They can be consumed in any form: fresh (only peeled), in salads, boiled, baked, steamed. They will become a good source of energy for the patient. In order for the body to recover faster, food should contain a lot of protein: cottage cheese and other dairy products, chicken, fish, eggs, meat, legumes, nuts. If the meat causes dislike or a taste of metal in the mouth, it should be cooked with sauces, but without hot spices to improve the palatability. Although it can always be replaced with fish, poultry and fresh seafood.

To supply carbohydrates, you need to eat cereals, potatoes, rice, pasta, which are well absorbed by patients. Various cheeses, yoghurts, sweet cream and dairy desserts are welcome. It is very important to drink plenty of good quality water, as it helps to remove toxic substances more easily, especially on the day of chemotherapy. Medicines must be removed from the body on time.

During chemotherapy, there may be no appetite, as the patient perceives taste and smell differently. Therefore, you need to eat in small portions and often. These phenomena will surely pass soon.

Nutrition for cancer patients is very important, because it is part of the treatment process, as it gives strength for recovery. Only before chemotherapy is it advisable to eat light meals. But it is better to consult with nutritionists about the diet and diet.

It is important to compare the benefits and harms of such a treatment method.

About the disease

Lung cancer is the presence of a malignant formation in the epithelial tissues of the bronchi. The disease is often confused with organ metastases.

Cancer is classified by its location:

• central - manifests itself early, affects the mucous part of the bronchus, causes pain, is characterized by cough, shortness of breath, fever;
• peripheral - proceeds painlessly until the tumor grows into the bronchi, leads to internal bleeding;
• massive - combines central and peripheral cancer.

About the procedure

The method of chemotherapy is to destroy the cells of malignant tumors with the help of certain poisons and toxins. It was first described in 1946. At that time, embichin was used as a toxin. The drug was created on the basis of mustard gas - a poisonous volatile substance of the First World War. This is how cytostatics appeared.

In chemotherapy, toxins are administered by drip or in the form of tablets. Keep in mind that cancer cells are constantly dividing. Therefore, therapy procedures are repeated based on the cell cycle.

Indications

With a malignant neoplasm in the lung, chemotherapy is carried out before and after surgery.

The specialist selects therapy according to the following factors:

• neoplasm size;
• growth rate;
• spread of metastases;
• involvement of neighboring lymph nodes;
• patient's age;
• stage of pathology;
• accompanying illnesses.

The doctor needs to take into account the risk with complications that accompany therapy. Based on these factors, the specialist decides on the conduct of chemotherapy. For inoperable lung cancer, chemotherapy becomes the only chance for survival.

Specialists divide the types of chemotherapy treatment, focusing on drugs and their combination. Treatment regimens are indicated in Latin letters.

It is easier for patients to subdivide the treatment by color:

• Red is the most toxic course. The name is associated with the use of antacyclines, which are colored red. Treatment leads to a decrease in the protective properties of the body against infections. This is due to a decrease in the number of neutrophils.
• White - includes the use of Taxotel and Taxol.
• Yellow - the substances used are colored yellow. The body tolerates them a little easier than red antacyclines.
• Blue - includes drugs called Mitomycin, Mitoxantrone.

For a complete effect on all cancerous particles, different types of chemotherapy are used. The specialist can combine them until he sees a positive effect from the treatment.

Peculiarities

Carrying out chemotherapy to stop the malignant process in the lung has its own differences. First of all, they depend on the type of oncology of the broncho-pulmonary system.

For squamous cell carcinoma

Pathology arises from metaplastic cells of the squamous epithelium of the bronchi, which by default do not exist in the tissues. The process of degeneration of the ciliated epithelium into a flat one is developing. Most often, the pathology occurs in men after 40 years.

Treatment involves systemic therapy:

• drugs Cisplatin, Bleomycin and others;
• radiation exposure;
• Taxol;
• gamma therapy.

With adenocarcinoma

The most common type of non-small cell airway cancer is adenocarcinoma. Therefore, the treatment of pathology with chemotherapy is often carried out. The disease originates from particles of the glandular epithelium, does not manifest itself in the early stages, and is characterized by slow development.

The main form of treatment is surgery, which is complemented by chemotherapy in order to avoid recurrence.

Preparations

Treatment of lung cancer with anticancer drugs can consist of two options:

1. the destruction of cancerous particles is carried out with the help of a single drug;
2. several medications are used.

Each of the medicines offered on the market has an individual mechanism of action on malignant particles. The effectiveness of medications also depends on the phase of the disease.

Alkylating agents

Drugs that act on malignant particles at the molecular level:

• Nitrosoureas - urea derivatives with antitumor effects, such as Nitrulline;
• Cyclophosphamide - used together with other antitumor substances in the treatment of lung cancer;
• Embihin - causes a violation of the stability of DNA, prevents cell growth.

Antimetabolites

Medicinal substances capable of blocking life processes in mutated particles, which leads to their destruction.

The most effective drugs:

• 5-fluorouracil - changes the structure of RNA, inhibits the division of malignant particles;
• Cytarabine - has anti-leukemic activity;
• Methotrexate - inhibits cell division, inhibits the growth of malignant tumors.

Anthracyclines

Medicines, which include components that can have a negative effect on malignant particles:

• Rubomycin - has antibacterial and antitumor activity;
• Adriblastin - refers to antitumor antibiotics.

Vinkalkaloids

Medicines are based on plants that prevent the division of pathogenic cells and destroy them:

Epipodophyllotoxins

Medicines that are synthesized similarly to the active substance from mandrake extract:

• Teniposide is an antitumor agent, a semi-synthetic derivative of podophyllotoxin, which is secreted from the roots of podophyllum thyroid;
• Etoposide is a semi-synthetic analogue of podophyllotoxin.

This article contains recipes for ways to treat lung cancer with soda.

Holding

The introduction of chemotherapy is carried out by intravenous drip. Dosage and regimen depends on the chosen treatment regimen. They are compiled individually for the individual patient.

After each therapeutic course, the patient's body is given the opportunity to recover. The break can last 1-5 weeks. Then the course is repeated. Simultaneously with chemotherapy, accompanying maintenance treatment is carried out. It improves the quality of life of the patient.

Before each course of treatment, a patient examination is carried out. According to the results of blood and other indicators, it is possible to adjust the further treatment regimen. For example, it is possible to reduce the dose, postpone the next course until the body recovers.

Additional methods of administration of drugs:

Harmful effect on the body

Antitumor treatment in 99% of cases is accompanied by toxic reactions. They do not serve as a reason to stop therapy. If life is endangered, it is possible to reduce the dose of the drug.

The appearance of toxic reactions is connected with the fact that chemotherapeutic drugs kill active cells. These include not only cancer particles, but also healthy human cells.

• Nausea with vomiting - the drug affects the sensitive receptors in the intestine, which releases serotonin in response. The substance is able to excite the nerve endings, when the information reaches the brain, the vomiting process starts. You can influence the receptors with the help of antiemetic drugs. Nausea disappears after completion of the course.

Stomatitis - medicines kill the epithelial cells of the mucosa in the oral cavity. The patient's mouth dries up, cracks and wounds begin to form. They are painful.

The oral cavity can be rinsed with soda solution, with special wipes to remove plaque from the tongue and teeth. Stomatitis resolves as soon as the level of leukocytes in the blood rises after chemotherapy is completed.

Diarrhea - the effect of toxins on the epithelial cells of the colon and small intestine. Diarrhea caused by taking anticancer drugs is life-threatening for the patient, so the doctor may reduce the dosage or stop it altogether.

This worsens the prognosis for lung cancer. After carrying out the necessary tests, they begin to treat diarrhea. You can use herbs, Smecta, Attapulgite.

With advanced diarrhea, an infusion of glucose, electrolyte solutions, taking vitamins, antibiotics is prescribed. After treatment, the patient must follow a diet.

Irreversible consequences

The effects of chemotherapy in the treatment of lung cancer may take some time to appear. Removing them will take time and additional costs.

• Fertility - drugs cause a decrease in the level of sperm in men, affect ovulation in women. This can lead to infertility. The only solution for young people is to freeze the cells before treatment.
• Osteoporosis – may occur up to a year after cancer treatment. Caused by calcium loss. This leads to bone loss. Manifested by pain in the joints, brittle nails, cramps in the legs, heart palpitations. Leads to broken bones.
• Decreased immunity - occurs due to a deficiency of leukocytes. Any infection can be life-threatening. It is necessary to carry out preventive measures in the form of wearing a gauze bandage, processing food. You can take a weekly course "Derinat". It will take a lot of time for the body to recover.
• Loss of strength - a decrease in the number of red blood cells. A blood transfusion or the introduction of erythropoietins into the body may be required.
• The appearance of bruises, bumps - platelet deficiency leads to a deterioration in blood clotting. The problem requires long-term treatment.
• Influence on the liver - the level of bilirubin in the blood rises. You can improve the condition of the liver with the help of diet, medications.

What is the price

A number of drugs cannot be purchased independently. They are issued only by prescription. Some medicines can be found in regular pharmacies.

Patients with lung cancer can get medicines for free. To do this, you need to contact an oncologist. The specialist must write a prescription. The list of free drugs is published on the portal of the Department of Health.

A patient with a prescription receives a medicine at a pharmacy, and brings the used ampoules and packaging to the oncologist for reporting. If the doctor does not want to write a prescription for a certain drug that is included in the list of free ones, you should write an application addressed to the head physician.

Free treatment and care for the sick is carried out in hospices, most of which are concentrated in Moscow and the region.

Forecast

During treatment, survival depends on the stage of development of the pathology, its form. Five-year survival after combined treatment is:

Chemotherapy increases the prognosis of survival after surgery by 5-10%. And at the last stage is the only chance to prolong life.

In this video review, a patient talks about how he feels after chemotherapy for lung cancer:

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The use of chemotherapy for lung cancer: how to treat pathology with this method?

In today's world, cancer is very common. More than eight million people die each year from lung cancer alone. To protect yourself and your loved ones, you need to monitor your health, periodically be diagnosed and, if a disease is detected, immediately contact professionals and treat it.

Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the lungs and bronchi. Most often, the disease progresses in the right lung and in the upper lobes. It can be either cancer of one lung or cancer of both lungs. The cells proliferate rapidly and may migrate to and invade other organs.

This disease is very dangerous, so it can lead to death. In terms of mortality, this disease ranks first among other cancers. Men who have crossed the sixty-year milestone fall into the risk category. A common type is squamous cell lung cancer, during which the tumor grows through the cells of the bronchial epithelium.

The disease has 4 stages (degrees):

• Stage 1 - a small tumor up to 2 cm in size, which does not affect the lymph nodes;
• Stage 2 - a mobile tumor more than 2 cm, begins to affect the lymphatic system;
• Stage 3 - a tumor limited in movement. It is characterized by metastasizing lymph nodes;
• Stage 4 - extreme. The tumor grows and is localized in neighboring organs. Unfortunately, there is no cure for stage 4 cancer.

What stage of the patient can be determined after diagnosis.

The concept of chemotherapy and the scheme of its implementation

Chemotherapy treatment refers to the treatment with medicines that stop the division and reproduction of cancer cells. There are other types of treatment, but they are not as effective.

Chemotherapy drugs are injected into the blood, where they directly perform their function and are distributed throughout the body. The main advantage of the treatment is that the drugs do not act on one specific area of ​​the body, but kill cancer cells wherever they are found, with little or no effect on healthy organs.

The procedure is carried out with interruptions of several weeks. This is necessary to restore immunity and rest the body. During the course, the doctor monitors the patient's condition, collects tests, and conducts the necessary studies. All chemicals have a dosage that depends on the weight and age of the person.

• the medicine is injected into a vein with a thin needle;
• a catheter is installed, which is not removed until the end of the course;
• if possible, the artery that is closest to the tumor is involved;
• preparations in the form of tablets and ointments are also used.

Chemotherapy for squamous cell lung cancer involves the use of drugs that kill abnormal cells.

The chemotherapy regimen should be effective and with a minimum level of side effects. All medical drugs must be prescribed individually for the patient, and they must also be combined with each other.

Indications for lung cancer chemotherapy

The procedure is prescribed depending on the disease, its stage, the age of the patient and other factors. The number of chemotherapy courses is prescribed directly by the doctor. First, they look at the size of the formation, its changes and deformations.

Pay attention to the general condition of the human body, the place of formation of the swelling and its progression. Chemotherapy for lung cancer helps to stop the development of the disease, and sometimes get rid of it.

Ideally, this therapy should completely destroy cancer cells. In the future, specialists prescribe chemotherapy drugs. The doctor prescribes all drugs individually for each patient. There are different types of chemicals for lung cancer, which are selected and prescribed in the clinic.

Contraindications and side effects of lung cancer chemotherapy

This method has a number of contraindications:

• worsening condition;
• disputes and doubts of doctors in the procedure;
• mental illness;
• infectious diseases;
• diseases (chronic) of the liver and kidneys;
• non-invasive cancer.

In addition, procedures can be canceled if:

• advanced age of the patient;
• body immunodeficiency;
• taking antibiotics;
• rheumatoid arthritis.

It is impossible to accurately predict the consequences. Some patients do not have them at all, others face a number of negative phenomena.

Medicine does not stand still and tries to improve medicines. But be aware of the negative consequences. They appear after the procedure, most often after a few days. The main ones include:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and other disorders of the digestive tract;
• disruption of the intestines. In turn, this leads to weight loss and a decrease in the immune function of the body, which is fraught with diseases;
• anemia;
• hair loss
• bleeding and bruising;
• ulcers in the mouth.

In order to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, the patient takes certain medications.

How to deal with the side effects of chemotherapy?

Any chemistry affects how the body works. So far, no drug has been created that would not be non-toxic and completely destroy oncological diseases. It is impossible to predict how difficult or easy a person will endure the procedure.

The consequences of chemotherapy for lung cancer vary from hair loss to nausea and vomiting.

To alleviate the condition you need:

• take special drugs that support the work of the kidneys, liver and bone tissue;
• it is worth following the right diet;
• reduce the amount of fatty, salty and spicy foods;
• more time to be outdoors;
• do not forget about walks and physical activity;
• communicate with the doctor, listen and follow all his recommendations;
• monitor the psychological state, have a positive mood, believe in a complete cure and know that soon everything will pass and normal life will be restored.

The effect of the application

The effectiveness of chemotherapy in lung cancer is. The disease is contained, cancer cells are destroyed, but the complete disappearance of oncology is most often impossible, since the cells have adapted to the drugs.

Frequently asked question: "How long do they live after chemotherapy?" The exact number of years varies and depends on the individual case and the transfer of treatment. After an illness, you can live a lot of time and lead a completely fulfilling life. Medicine knows happy cases of healing.

The treatment of lung cancer with chemotherapy has its positive results: in connection with the development of medicine, chemotherapy courses for lung cancer every year show better results and are much less painful than they used to be. Therefore, you need to do this procedure. You need to treat it with attention and understand that this is a necessary measure. And most importantly - you need to believe in a speedy recovery and never give up.

Proper nutrition during chemotherapy

In the course of treatment, much depends on the patient himself. First of all, it concerns proper nutrition.

With side effects, a healthy, nutritious diet is essential. It helps the body to function normally, and the person recovers faster. Medicines adversely affect the organs of the digestive tract. A person is faced with a lot of difficulties. Therefore, further recovery also depends on the quality and regularity of nutrition.

You should drink plenty of water, at least one and a half to two liters a day during the course of chemotherapy. It is very important to enrich your diet with all groups of healthy foods: protein, grains, fruits and vegetables, and dairy products. Protein foods include: beans, fish, nuts, eggs, soy, meat. During the day, it is best to consume such products at least once. Dairy products include: kefir, yogurt, dairy products, cheese and others. They are rich in calcium and magnesium.

The diet should be enriched with fruits and vegetables, including dried fruits and compotes. This group of foods should be consumed at least four times a day. This is especially true when starting chemotherapy.

Drinking freshly squeezed juice will be helpful. You should add fresh herbs to your diet. Be sure to eat carrots and various fruits containing vitamin C. Also, do not forget about cereals and bread. They are rich in carbohydrates and B vitamins. In the morning you need to eat cereals. During and after treatment in this way, you need to drink vitamins. Alcoholic beverages should be excluded.

Chemotherapy course

A course of chemotherapy is a tool for the elimination of many types of malignant neoplasms. Its essence boils down to the use, during the treatment process, of medical chemicals, which can significantly slow down the growth of defective cells, or damage their structure.

Based on many years of research, physicians have developed their own doses of cytostatic drugs and a schedule for each type of tumor. The drugs taken are strictly dosed and calculated depending on the patient's body weight. The protocol for the course of chemotherapy is prepared individually, for each patient separately.

In modern oncology, it has not yet been possible to obtain a drug that would meet two main categories in relation to the human body and cancer cells: a low level of toxicity to the body and an effective effect on all types of tumor cells.

Who to contact?

How is the course of chemotherapy going?

Quite often, patients and their relatives have a natural question: “How is the course of chemotherapy going?”.

Based on the characteristics of the patient's disease, a course of chemotherapy takes place in a hospital or at home under the close supervision of an experienced oncologist who has sufficient experience in such treatment.

If the attending physician allows therapy at home, then it is better to carry out the first session in a hospital, under the supervision of a doctor who, if necessary, will correct further treatment. When treating at home, a periodic visit to the doctor is mandatory.

Some ways of conducting a course of chemotherapy:

• Using a fairly thin injection needle, the medicine is injected into a vein in the arm (peripheral vein).
• A catheter, which is a small tube in diameter, is inserted into the subclavian or central vein. For the duration of the course, they do not take it out and the medicine is administered through it. Often the course takes several days. A special pump is used to control the volume of the injected drug.
• If possible, they are "connected" to the artery, which passes directly through the tumor.
• Tablets are taken orally.
• Intramuscular injections directly into the location of the tumor or subcutaneously.
• Anticancer drugs, in the form of ointments or solutions, are applied directly to the skin at the site of the tumor.
• Medicines, if necessary, can also enter the abdominal or pleural cavities, spinal fluid or bladder.

Observations show that during the introduction of anticancer drugs, the patient feels quite well. Side effects appear immediately after the completion of the procedure, after a few hours or days.

Duration of chemotherapy course

Therapy for each patient depends largely on the classification of the cancer; the goal pursued by the doctor; administered drugs and the reaction of the patient's body to them. The treatment protocol and the duration of the course of chemotherapy are determined individually for each patient by his doctor. The schedule of therapy may be the administration of an anticancer drug every day, or spread over a weekly dose, or the patient is assigned to receive chemical drugs monthly. The dosage is precisely adjusted and recalculated depending on the body weight of the victim.

Patients receive chemotherapy in cycles (this is the time during which the patient receives anticancer drugs). The course of treatment, most often, is from one to five days. Next comes a break, which can last from one to four weeks (depending on the treatment protocol). The patient is given the opportunity to recover a little. After that, he goes through the next cycle, which, dosed, continues to destroy or stop tumor cells. Most often, the number of cycles ranges from four to eight (if necessary), and the total treatment time, basically, reaches six months.

There are cases when the attending physician prescribes a repeated course of chemotherapy to the patient in order to prevent relapses, in which case the treatment can take up to a year and a half.

A very important element in the process of therapy is strict adherence to dosages, timing of cycles, maintaining intervals between courses, even if, it would seem, there is no strength anymore. Otherwise, all the efforts made will not lead to the expected result. Only in exceptional cases, based on clinical tests, the doctor can temporarily stop taking cancer drugs. If a failure in the schedule of admission occurred due to the fault of the patient (forgot or for some reason could not take the necessary medicine), it is necessary to inform your doctor about this. Only he can make the right decision.

With a long course of taking oncological drugs, partial or complete cell addiction may occur, so the oncologist conducts a test for sensitivity to this drug before and during treatment.

Duration of chemotherapy course

Medicine and pharmacology do not stand still, new innovative technologies and treatment regimens are constantly being developed, and more modern medicines are also appearing. In the process of treatment, oncologists prescribe oncological drugs or their most effective combinations. Moreover, depending on the patient's diagnosis and the stage of its progression, the duration of the course of chemotherapy and the schedule for its passage are strictly regulated by international methods.

Cytostatic drugs, and complexes of them, are quantitatively compiled according to the principle of the minimum need to obtain the most significant effect on cancer cells while causing the least harm to human health.

The duration of the cycle and the number of courses are selected depending on the tumor belonging to a particular type, on the clinic of the ongoing disease, on the drugs used in the treatment and on the reaction of the patient's body to the ongoing treatment (the doctor observes whether side deviations appear).

The therapeutic complex of measures can last on average from six months to two years. At the same time, the attending physician does not let the patient out of his field of vision, regularly undergoing the necessary studies (radiography, blood tests, MRI, ultrasound, and others).

Number of chemotherapy courses

In the terminology of medical oncologists, there is such a thing as dose intensity. This name determines the concept of the frequency and amount of medication administered to the patient, for a certain period of time. The eighties of the twentieth century passed under the auspices of increasing dose intensity. The patient began to receive more drugs, while the attending physician tried to prevent significant toxicity. But the patient and his family should understand that with a decrease in dose intake, with certain types of cancer cells, the chances of recovery also fall. In such patients, even with a positive result of treatment, relapses often occur.

Moreover, studies conducted by German scientists have shown that with the intensity of the dosage and the reduction of the intercourse time, the results of treatment are more impressive - the number of cured patients is much higher.

The number of chemotherapy courses depends largely on the patient's tolerance to drugs and the stage of the disease. The oncologist in each case must take into account many different factors. One of the most significant is the area of ​​localization of the disease, its type, the number of metastases and their prevalence. An important factor is the immediate condition of the patient. With good tolerability of drugs, the tandem of the patient and the doctor goes through all the cycles provided for in the scheme from the course of chemotherapy, but if the doctor notices obvious signs of toxicity in the patient (for example, a sharp drop in hemoglobin, leukocytes in the blood, exacerbation of systemic diseases and others), the number of cycles is reduced.

In each case, the regimen and the number of cycles are purely individual, but there are generally accepted schedules for the administration of drugs, on which the treatment of many patients is based.

Most often, treatment is carried out according to the Mayo scheme. The patient takes fluorouracil with leucovorin at a dosage of 425 mg intravenously for one to five days with a four-week break. But the number of chemotherapy courses themselves is determined by the attending physician based on the stage of the disease. More often six courses - about six months.

Or the Roswell Park scheme. The introduction of cancer drugs once a week, every six weeks for a treatment course of eight months.

Long-term studies give the following five-year survival rates for patients (with a specific type of lung cancer and the same stage of its development): three cycles of chemotherapy - 5%, with five cycles - 25%, if the patient has completed seven courses - 80%. Conclusion: with a smaller number of cycles carried out, the hope for survival tends to zero.

Can chemotherapy be interrupted?

Faced with this problem, patients almost always ask their doctor the natural question, is it possible to interrupt the course of chemotherapy? The answer here can be unambiguous. Interruption of the course of treatment, especially in its later stages, is fraught with quite serious rollbacks to the primary form of the disease, up to death. Therefore, it is unacceptable to stop taking the prescribed anti-cancer drugs on your own. It is necessary to strictly adhere to the scheme of administration of drugs. Any violation of the regimen (due to forgetfulness, or due to some objective circumstances) should immediately be known to the attending physician. Only he can give advice.

Interruption of the course of chemotherapy is possible only at the reasonable decision of the oncologist. He can make such a decision on the basis of clinical indications and visual observation of the ward. The reasons for this interruption can be:

• Exacerbation of chronic diseases.
• A sharp drop in the number of leukocytes in the blood.
• Decreased to critical hemoglobin.
• And others.

Break between chemotherapy courses

Most drugs taken during chemotherapy work to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. But the division process for both oncological and normal cells proceeds in the same way. Therefore, no matter how regrettable it sounds, the drugs taken are subjected to the same effects on both those and other cells of the human body, causing side effects. That is, healthy cells are also damaged.

In order for the patient's body to take a break at least for a while, to recover slightly and to “transcend to fight the disease” with renewed vigor, oncologists necessarily introduce breaks between chemotherapy courses. Such a rest can last about one to two weeks, in exceptional cases up to four weeks. But based on the monitoring carried out by German oncologists, the density of chemotherapy courses should be as high as possible, and the rest time as short as possible, so that during this period of time the cancerous tumor cannot grow again.

1 course of chemotherapy

For 1 course of chemotherapy, not all are usually destroyed, but only a certain percentage of cancer cells. Therefore, oncologists almost never stop at one treatment cycle. Based on the overall clinical picture, the oncologist may prescribe from two to twelve cycles of chemotherapy.

In their totality, the time the patient receives anticancer drugs and the time of rest is indicated by the course of chemotherapy. As part of the 1 course of chemotherapy, the dosage of the drug or drugs that are administered intravenously or in the form of tablets and suspensions is clearly prescribed according to the scheme. Their intensity of administration; quantitative framework of rest; doctor visits; delivery, provided for by the schedule of this cycle, analyzes; clinical studies - all this is scheduled within one cycle, almost in seconds.

The number of cycles is determined by the attending physician, based on such factors: the stage of the cancer; variant of lymphoma; the name of the drugs that are administered to the patient; the goal that the doctor wants to achieve:

• Or it is a preoperative cupping chemistry to slow down or completely stop the division of malignant cells, which is carried out before surgery to remove the tumor.
• Or is it an "independent" course of treatment.
• Or a course of chemotherapy, which is carried out after the operation, to destroy the remaining cancer cells and prevent the formation of new tumor cells.
• Quite often it depends on the severity of side effects and their nature.

Only through monitoring and clinical studies, which adds experience, the doctor is able to more effectively select the drug or their complex for the patient, as well as introduce the intensity and quantitative indicator of cycles into the treatment regimen, with minimal toxicity of the body and maximum ability to destroy cancer cells.

Chemotherapy for lung cancer

Cancer patients with lung damage, today, are leading in quantitative manifestation. Moreover, this disease covers all countries of the globe, and the percentage of patients with such a diagnosis is growing every day. The statistics sound rather frightening figures: for every hundred of those who are diagnosed with lung cancer, 72 people do not live even a year after diagnosis. Most patients are elderly (approximately 70% of patients are over 65 years of age).

The treatment of this disease is carried out in a complex manner and one of the methods of struggle is chemotherapy, which especially gives a high positive result in the case of a small cell lung tumor.

Recognizing the disease at its early stage is quite difficult, since at first it is almost asymptomatic, and when pain begins to manifest itself, it is often too late. But this does not mean at all that you need to give up and do nothing. Despite this, modern oncology centers have at their disposal diagnostic methods that make it possible to detect this terrible disease at an embryonic level, giving the patient a chance to live.

Differentiation of cancer cells and their classification occurs according to some criteria:

• Neoplasm cell size.
• The volume of the tumor itself.
• The presence of metastases and the depth of their penetration into other associated organs.

The assignment of a specific disease to an existing class is important, since for a finely dispersed and coarsely dispersed tumor, at various stages of its growth, the methods of treatment are somewhat different. In addition, the differentiation of the disease makes it possible to predict the further course of the disease, the effectiveness of a particular therapy and the general life prognosis of the patient.

The course of chemotherapy for lung cancer is aimed at damaging tumor neoplasms. In some cases, it is used as an individual method of treatment, but more often it is included in the general medical complex. Small cell carcinoma responds especially well to chemicals.

The patient almost always receives cytostatics inside through a dropper. Each patient receives the dosage and dosage regimen from his attending physician individually. After completing one course of chemotherapy, the patient receives two to three weeks of rest in order to at least partially restore strength and prepare his body for a new dose of drugs. The patient receives as many treatment cycles as required by the protocol.

The list of cytostatics used in lung cancer is quite wide. Here are some of them:

Carboplatin (Paraplatin)

This drug is given intravenously over 15 minutes to one hour.

The solution is prepared immediately before the dropper, diluting one vial of the drug with 0.9% sodium chloride solution or 5% glucose solution. The concentration of the resulting mixture should be no more than 0.5 mg / ml of carboplatin. The total dose is calculated individually in the amount of 400 mg per m 2 of the patient's body surface. The rest period between doses is four weeks. A lower dosage is prescribed when the drug is used in combination with other drugs.

Precautionary measures for the use of the drug during the course of chemotherapy:

• This drug is used only under the close supervision of the attending oncologist.
• Therapy can begin only with full confidence in the correctness of the diagnosis.
• When using the medication, it is necessary to work only with gloves. If the medicine gets on the skin, it should be washed off with soap and water as soon as possible, and the mucous membrane should be thoroughly rinsed with water.
• With significant doses of the drug, inhibition of the bone marrow, the occurrence of severe bleeding and the development of an infectious disease are possible.
• The appearance of vomiting can be stopped by taking antiemetics.
• There is a possibility of allergic reactions. In this case, you need to take antihistamines.
• Contact of carboplatinum with aluminum leads to a decrease in the activity of the drug. Therefore, when administering the drug, you can not use needles, which include this chemical element.

There are no data on the use of the drug in the treatment of children.

Cisplatin (Platinol)

The drug is administered using a dropper, intravenously. The dosage is set by the doctor: - 30 mg per m 2 once a week;

• - 60 - 150 mg per m 2 of the patient's body area every three to five weeks;
• - 20 mg/m2 daily for 5 days. Reapply every four weeks;
• - 50 mg/m2 on the first and eighth days every four weeks.

In combination with irradiation, the drug is administered intravenously daily at a dose of up to 100 mg.

If the doctor has prescribed the administration of the drug intraperitoneally and intrapleurally, the dose is set from 40 to 100 mg.

When the drug is injected directly into the cavity, the drug is not strongly diluted.

Contraindications include both hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, and impaired renal function and hearing.

Docetaxel

The drug is administered slowly, once, intravenously, for 1 hour. Dosage of 75-100 mg per / m 2, the procedure is repeated every three weeks.

When taking the drug, it is necessary to observe all the precautions that are stipulated when working with other anticancer drugs.

Almost all chemotherapy drugs have many side effects, therefore, in order to remove some of them, the attending physician prescribes to his patient additional drugs that partially or completely stop them. The most common side effects:

• Hair loss.
• peripheral neuropathy.
• Nausea turning into vomiting.
• The appearance of ulcers in the mouth.
• Disturbances in the digestive tract.
• Decreased vitality: fatigue, loss of appetite, depression.
• Change in taste preferences.
• A decrease in the number of red cells in the blood is anemia.
• A decrease in the number of white cells in the blood is neutropenia.
• Decreased platelet count.
• Suppression of the immune system.
• Changes in the structure and color of nails, skin color.

The recovery process after the treatment cycle, in most cases, stretches for about six months.

Chemotherapy course for lymphoma

Lymphoma - tumor cells that have penetrated the human lymphatic system, as well as nearby organs lying with the lymph nodes. One of the first symptoms of cancerous lesions in lymphoma is the swelling of various groups of lymph nodes (inflammation can capture both a separate group of nodes - inguinal, axillary, cervical localizations - and all of them in a complex). The use of a course of chemotherapy for lymphoma gives quite good results and an optimistic prognosis. Doctors distinguish lymphoma of sclerotic-nodular or combined forms. The stages of the disease, as with cancers of other organs, are distinguished: mild, moderate and severe. A more neglected form, often, leads to death.

The scheme of the course of chemotherapy is signed based on the severity of the disease, as well as depending on the composition of the lymphatic fluid. Despite the different localization of the disease, the diagnostic methods and schedules for taking chemotherapy drugs are quite similar. What distinguishes them is the drugs that patients receive and their combinations. Lymphomas are not operated on, so a course of chemotherapy is one of the main ways to cure. Traditionally, in the treatment of lymph cancer, the patient goes through three cycles, with more severe forms, the number of courses increases.

To confirm the diagnosis, in addition to computed tomography, MRI, positron emission tomography (PET) and other methods are used, since the unifying name "lymphoma" includes a fairly large number of different diseases. But, nevertheless, the schemes for taking anticancer drugs are similar, they use the same set of drugs. At an early stage of the disease, several protocol-approved schemes of combined chemotherapy drugs are used in combination with laser therapy.

The list of such drugs is quite wide. Here are some of them.

Adriamycin

The drug enters the venumg / m 2, once every three to four weeks. Or for three days pomg / m 2 in three to four weeks. Or on the first, eighth and 15th days, once, at 30 mg / m 2. Intervals between cycles are provided in 3-4 weeks.

If the drug is administered inside the bladder, the dropper is placed once with an interval of one week to a month.

Complex therapy involves a dropper every week at a dosage of mg / m 2, but the total course dose should not exceed mg / m 2.

The drug in question is contraindicated in people who are hypersensitive to hydroxybenzoates, suffering from anemia, impaired liver and kidney function, acute hepatitis, ulcerative manifestations in the stomach and duodenum, and others (a complete list of contraindications can be found in the instructions for this medication).

Bleomycin

The antitumor agent is attributed both to the muscle and to the vein.

• for injections into a vein: a vial of the drug is diluted with a solution (20 ml) of sodium chloride. The medication is injected at a fairly dosed rate.
• when injected into a muscle, the drug is dissolved in an isotonic solution of sodium chloride (5-10 ml). To dull the pain, pre-inject 1-2 ml of a 1-2% solution of novocaine.

The usual regimen for adults is 15 mg every other day or 30 mg twice a week. The total course dose should not exceed 300 mg. With a repeated cycle, both a single and a course dose are reduced, the interval between doses of the drug is maintained up to one and a half to two months. For elderly patients, the dose is reduced and is 15 mg twice a week. To babies, this drug is administered carefully. The dose is calculated depending on the body weight of the little one. When injected, only freshly prepared solution is used.

The contraindications of this drug are significant: these are violations of the function of the kidneys and respiration, pregnancy, severe disease of the cardiovascular system ...

Vinblastine

This drug comes through a dropper and only intravenously. The dosage is strictly individual and directly depends on the clinic of the patient.

For adults: a single starting dosage - 0.1 mg / kg of the patient's weight (3.7 mg / m 2 of body surface), repeat after a week. On the next injection, the dose is increased by 0.05 mg/kg per week and adjusted to the maximum dose for the week - 0.5 mg/kg (18.5 mg/m 2). An indicator of stopping the growth of the dose of the administered drug is a decrease in the number of leukocytes to 3000/mm 3 .

The prophylactic dose is 0.05 mg/kg less than the starting dose and is taken every 7 to 14 days until all symptoms are gone.

For babies: the starting amount of the drug is 2.5 mg / m 2 once a week, the dose is increased gradually by 1.25 mg / m 2 every week until the number of leukocytes decreases to 3000 / mm 3. The maximum total dose of the week is 7.5 mg / m 2.

The maintenance dosage is 1.25 mg/m 2 lower, which the child receives for 7–14 days. The vial of the drug is diluted with 5 ml of the solvent. Subsequently, if necessary, diluted with 0.9% sodium chloride solution.

This medicine is not advisable for patients who suffer from hypersensitivity to the active substance or any component of the drug, as well as viral or bacterial infections.

The number of courses of chemotherapy administered is determined by the attending physician based on the clinic of the disease and the general condition of the patient.

Chemotherapy for stomach cancer

Stomach cancer is a cancerous tumor that invades the lining of the stomach. It is able to metastasize to the layers of organs adjacent to the focus, more often this penetration occurs in the liver, lymphatic system, esophagus, bone tissue and other organs.

At the initial stage of the onset of the disease, the symptoms of this disease are practically invisible. And only when the disease progresses, apathy appears, appetite disappears, the patient begins to lose weight, taste intolerance to meat food appears, a blood test shows anemia. In the future, some discomfort begins to be felt in the stomach area. If the cancerous tumor is located close enough to the esophagus, the patient feels early saturation of the stomach, its overflow. Internal bleeding, nausea, vomiting is activated, severe pain appears.

A course of chemotherapy for stomach cancer is given either intravenously or in the form of tablets. This treatment complex is carried out either before surgery, in order to at least slightly reduce the size of the tumor itself, or after surgery, to remove cancer cells that may have remained after resection or to prevent relapses.

Oncologists use cytotoxic drugs to destroy tumor cells. Modern pharmacology offers a rather impressive list of them.

The course of chemotherapy is represented by such drugs:

Cisplatin, which has already been mentioned above.

Fluorocyl

It is often introduced into various treatment protocols. The patient takes it into a vein. It is stopped to enter when the leukocytes reach a critical norm. After normalization, the treatment process resumes. This medication is dripped for hours continuously at the rate of 1g / m 2 per day. There is another course where the patient receives the medicine on the first and eighth days with a dosage of 600 mg / m 2. It is also prescribed in combination with calcium, then the volumes are 500 mg / m 2 daily for three to five days with an interval of four weeks.

Patients who suffer from individual intolerance to the components of this drug, suffering from renal or hepatic insufficiency, an acute form of an infectious disease, tuberculosis, as well as in pregnancy or lactation, are not recommended to take this drug.

Epirubicin

The drug enters the patient in a jet way into a vein. It is necessary to ensure that the drug does not get into other tissues, as it can provoke their deep damage, up to necrosis.

Adults: As a mono drug - intravenously. Dosage mg/m 2 . A break in the introduction of the oncological drug is 21 days. If there is a pathology of the bone marrow in the anamnesis, the administered dosage is reduced by the amount of g/m 2 .

If the anticancer agent is taken together with other drugs, its dosage is reduced accordingly.

Temperature after chemotherapy

After any course of chemotherapy, the patient's body is weakened, the immune system is severely suppressed, and against this background, viral infections often occur, which provoke a rise in the patient's body temperature. Therefore, the general treatment of the patient is carried out fractionally, in separate cycles, in between which they allow the patient's body to recover and restore spent defenses. The fact that the temperature rises after a course of chemotherapy tells the attending physician that the patient's body is infected and can no longer cope with the disease. It is necessary to include antibiotics in the treatment protocol.

The disease develops rapidly, therefore, in order to prevent complications, treatment must begin immediately. To determine the causative agent of inflammation, the patient takes a blood test. Once the cause is identified, the effect can be treated.

Unfortunately, an increase in temperature against the background of a general weakening of the body is an inevitable consequence of a course of chemotherapy. During this period, the patient just needs to narrow the circle of contacts. You can't take antipyretics.

What to do after a course of chemotherapy?

After spending a sufficiently long time in the hospital walls, patients ask a question to their oncologist. What to do after a course of chemotherapy?

The main thing that patients need to remember is:

• The patient must be shown on a follow-up examination to the oncologist. The first appointment will be appointed by the attending physician of the hospital, and the patient will receive a further schedule of visits from the doctor at the clinic.
• At the slightest manifestation of a symptom, you need to urgently come back to see a doctor:
  • Diarrhea and nausea.
  • Pain that persists for several days.
  • Unreasonable weight loss.
  • The appearance of swelling and bruising (if there was no injury).
  • Dizziness.
• Cancer is not dangerous. Therefore, do not limit the patient in communicating with relatives and friends. Positive emotions are also healing.
• If the body has returned to normal after a course of chemotherapy, you should not avoid intimacy, it is an integral part of a full life. It is impossible to infect your partner with cancer, but to spoil the relationship completely.
• After all the chemotherapy courses are over, the rehabilitation process has also been completed, vitality has been restored, there is no reason to abandon professional activities. Former patients may well return to work, especially if it is not associated with heavy physical labor. In a pouring case, you can find a place for yourself where the work is easier.
• As the body's immune system and vitality are restored, the former patient can gradually return to his usual level of activity. Go out to people, go to work, walk in the park - this will provide an opportunity to distract from problems, push them into the background.

Recovery after a course of chemotherapy

A cancer patient after a general treatment feels quite bad. Reduced functions of all organs and systems. Recovery after a course of chemotherapy includes the need to help the patient bring his body back to normal working condition as soon as possible. Support in the desire to return to a full social life.

In most cases, this process takes about six months. During the recovery period, the patient undergoes rehabilitation courses developed by specialists that will cleanse the body of the effects of chemotherapy, protect against the penetration of pathogenic flora (taking antibiotics), stimulate the body to activate, allow to consolidate the result and prevent complications.

The recovery period is represented by several stages or courses:

• Restorative drug therapy, carried out even in a hospital setting.
• Rehabilitation at home.
• Means of traditional medicine.
• Spa treatment.

The patient undergoes the initial course of rehabilitation therapy while still in the hospital. And since the liver is the first to take the hit of chemotherapy, it must be supported even during the period of the treatment itself. She needs support during her rehabilitation as well. To improve the functioning of the liver, the patient is prescribed supportive drugs, often made from natural plant materials, for example, Karsil, which is based on milk thistle.

Adults take these dragees three times a day, one to four pieces (as prescribed by the doctor, depending on the severity of the disease). Duration of admission - more than three months.

For children older than five years, the daily dose of the drug is prescribed at the rate of 5 mg per 1 kg of the baby's body weight. The resulting figure is divided into three steps.

This drug has a number of minor side effects. The main one is dyspepsia, a violation of the normal functioning of the stomach, problematic digestion, passing with pain. Less common are vestibular disorders and alopecia (abnormal hair loss), but they usually resolve on their own. There is only one contraindication for use - hypersensitivity to any of the components of the drug.

Good helpers in cleansing the body are adsorbents, which, like a sponge, absorb into themselves, bind toxins and remove them. These modern enterosorbents have an extensive adsorbing surface. This makes them highly efficient.

This medicine is available in the form of a paste completely ready for use. The duration of the course is purely individual and is appointed by the attending physician leading the patient, but on average from a week to two. Reception is carried out one and a half to two hours before or after a meal or medication, three times a day. A single dose for adults or adolescents over 14 years of age is 15 g (respectively, the daily dose is 45 g).

Tots from zero to five years old are assigned a teaspoon (5 g) - a single dose or 15 g - daily. For children from five to 14 years old, respectively: daily dose - 30 g, single dose - 10 g.

In severe manifestations of the effects of chemotherapy, the dosage in the first three days can be doubled, and then return to the recommended dose. There are also side effects of this drug - constipation (if the patient was prone to their manifestation before). The drug is contraindicated in patients who have a history of acute intestinal obstruction, an allergic reaction to the component composition of the drug.

This sorbent is drunk in the form of an aqueous mixture, which is made immediately before use: powder of the drug is injected into one glass of non-hot boiling water or mineral water (without gas) of neutral alkalinity: for adults - 1.2 g (one tablespoon), for children - 0, 6 g (one teaspoon). The solution is well mixed. The resulting suspension is taken one hour before taking medications or food. In this case, the daily dosage of the drug for adults and children who are seven years old is 12 g (if there is a medical need, the dose can be increased to 24 g per day).

For babies aged from one to seven years, the daily dosage is determined based on the calculation of g per 1 kg of the child's weight and is divided into three to four doses. A single dose should not be more than half the daily dosage. In the case when it is difficult for the patient to take the medicine on his own, it is administered to him through a probe.

The course of treatment is purely individual and averages from 3 to 15 days. There are few contraindications for this drug. These include acute periods of peptic ulcers of the duodenum and stomach, damage to the mucous membrane of the small and large intestines (erosion, ulcers), intestinal obstruction. Do not give polysorb to children under one year old.

After discharge from the hospital, the patient needs to radically change his past lifestyle and diet. To prevent the entry of pathogenic flora into the body, it is necessary to take care of the oral cavity (mouth cavity, brush your teeth ...). At first, refuse solid food or drink it well with liquid so that it passes through the esophagus more easily, without injuring.

The impact on the body of chemicals leads to disturbances in the blood supply system, and the blood formula itself changes. To raise hemoglobin, the doctor prescribes the patient to take red wine in small doses (although it is not recommended to drink alcohol after such a complex procedure as chemotherapy). During this period, the patient also takes venotonics.

For example, venarus is an angioprotector that raises vascular tone, prevents stagnation of venous blood in the vessels, and improves its microcirculation. Take twice a day (during lunch and dinner), one to two tablets. This drug is not recommended for patients who have hypersensitivity to the components of the drug (complete intolerance is rare).

To increase platelets in the blood, the attending physician prescribes B group vitamins to the patient, as well as Sodecor and Derinat, and some others.

The injection of this medicine is administered intramuscularly (rarely subcutaneously). Adults receive a single dosage of 5 ml. The patient receives an injection as prescribed by the doctor every hour. The course of admission involves about three to ten injections.

The schedule for the administration of the drug for children is similar. A single dose varies:

• peanuts under the age of two years - 0.5 ml of the drug.
• from two to ten years - 0.5 ml of medication, calculated for each year of life.
• older than ten years - 5 ml of Derinat.

This medicine is contraindicated in patients who suffer from individual intolerance to sodium deoxyribonucleate or diabetes mellitus.

The daily dosage of the drug is from 15 to 30 ml (diluted with 200 ml of water or warm tea) divided into one to three doses. The duration of treatment is from three weeks to a month. The solution must be shaken well before use.

Sodecor is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to its components, arterial hypertension.

Do not neglect the recovery period and the course of treatment with folk remedies.

To overcome such a consequence of chemotherapy as baldness, you can use the experience of our ancestors:

• Rub into the roots of the head burdock oil, which is sold in any pharmacy.
• In this case, an infusion of rowan and rose hips works well. You need to drink three glasses daily.
• Decoctions for washing the head, made on the basis of burdock root or hops.
• Berry fruit drinks have an excellent effect.
• And others.

To increase the number of leukocytes, hemoglobin, platelets, erythrocytes in the blood (to normalize its formula) will help the patient:

• Decoctions prepared on the basis of herbs such as chicory, sweet clover, angelica root.
• Tincture or decoction of the golden root.
• Nettle decoction.
• Eleutherococcus tincture.
• A decoction based on yarrow herb.
• And other herbs.

With hematomas in the vein area, vodka compresses, which are topped with plantain or cabbage leaves, show good efficiency.

And as the final chord of the rehabilitation period, it is a sanatorium treatment, as well as climatotherapy, as an integral part of a comprehensive sanatorium treatment.

Due to the ever-increasing number of cancers, specialized sanatoriums have become an indispensable stage of the rehabilitation period. Special programs are being developed, which include:

• Reception of mineral water.
• The use of phytotherapy (herbal treatment).
• Selection of an individual balanced diet.

Physiotherapeutic procedures in the recovery period after chemotherapy:

• Iodine baths.
• Yoga practice.
• Water procedures with sea salt.
• Aromatherapy is the treatment of smells.
• Recreational physical education.
• Therapeutic swimming.
• Working with a psychologist Getting positive emotions, stress relief.
• Climatotherapy: walks in the fresh air (often sanatoriums are located in picturesque places, remote from industrial zones).

Nutrition after chemotherapy

Food during treatment has important functions of recovery. Nutrition after a course of chemotherapy is a real weapon to return to a normal, fulfilling life. Food during this period should be balanced. Especially on the table of the former patient, products should appear that will help put a barrier on the path of malignant neoplasms, working both for treatment and prevention.

Products required in the diet:

• Broccoli. It contains an isothiocyanate. It is capable of destroying cancer cells.
• Cereals and cereals.
• Brown rice and nuts.
• Vegetables and fruits. Vegetables are best eaten raw or stewed.
• Legumes must be present in the diet.
• Fish.
• It is better to limit the use of flour products. Bread only coarse grinding.
• Honey, lemon, dried apricots and raisins - these products can significantly increase hemoglobin.
• Freshly squeezed juices, especially from beets and apples. They will bring vitamins C, P, group B and trace elements into the body.
• Herbal teas: with blackcurrant, rosehip, oregano…

• Black tea and coffee.
• Alcohol.
• Fast food.
• Toxic products.
• Products containing dyes, stabilizers, preservatives…

Many people perceive the word cancer as a sentence. Do not despair. And if trouble comes to your house - fight. Work in the field of oncology is being carried out "on all fronts": innovative treatment methods, the growth of the quality of anti-cancer drugs themselves, the development of rehabilitation complexes after all medical procedures. Thanks to the achievements of recent years, the course of chemotherapy has become less painful, and the percentage of victories in the joint work of the doctor and the patient is growing pleasantly, which means that one more step has been taken in the fight against this terrible disease. Live and fight! After all, life is beautiful.

Medical Expert Editor

Portnov Alexey Alexandrovich

Education: Kyiv National Medical University. A.A. Bogomolets, specialty - "Medicine"

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ATTENTION! SELF-MEDING CAN BE HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH!

Be sure to consult with a qualified specialist so as not to harm your health!

Lung cancer is a dangerous oncological disease with an increased likelihood of death. In most cases, lung cancer affects the elderly. However, the younger generation is not protected from pathology. Thanks to modern diagnostic techniques, it is possible to detect the disease at an early stage, which makes the treatment process easier to transfer. For the treatment of lung cancer, complex therapy is prescribed, consisting of chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgical procedures. Chemotherapy for lung cancer is highly effective and increases the chance of a successful cure.

The oncological process in the lungs is divided into 5 key stages of progression:

• Zero - initially, tumor foci form in the body. Not a single instrument and apparatus is able to detect tissue damage at the initial stage. At the same time, oncology does not have pronounced clinical signs.
• The first - the period is most favorable for treatment. Therapy carried out at the first stage is most effective. The size of the tumor does not reach 3 centimeters in diameter. The actions of regional lymph nodes are not detected. Lung cancer in the first stage is diagnosed in 10% of cases. To ensure the safety of the body, it is recommended to undergo fluorographic examinations annually.
• The second - the size of the cancer growth with metastases is in the range of 3-5 centimeters. Due to the increased size of the nodes, it is possible to detect pathology on an x-ray. At this stage, coughing, hemoptysis, violations of the heart and blood vessels, a sharp decrease in body weight, and rapid fatigue are observed.

• The third (subparagraph a) - the neoplasm grows in size, which intensifies the symptoms of the disease. Tumor cells spread through the tissues of the lymph nodes of the mediastinum. The prognosis for a successful recovery promises 30%.
• Third (subparagraph b) - a metastatic cell is formed in the materials of the lungs, in the vertebrae of the thoracic region, ribs and thoracic region. Patients face fractures caused by pathology.
• The fourth stage is characterized by the formation of multiple focal areas spreading by the hematogenous route. The chance of a successful cure is minimal. Sometimes stage 4 does not involve chemotherapy. In such situations, palliative care is required.

Guided by the division system listed above, oncologists choose the appropriate method of therapeutic treatment.

Indications for chemotherapy

If the mass is malignant, immediate chemotherapy is given. The procedure is carried out before the operation or as a postoperative measure. The choice of the appropriate therapy is based on the following factors:

• the size of the tumor focus;
• distribution intensity;
• capture by metastases of surrounding tissues and organs;
• involvement of nearby lymph nodes;
• age criterion of the patient;
• stage of development of oncological disease;
• the presence of chronic or concomitant pathologies;
• location of cancer nodes;
• the degree of impact on nearby cells;
• a variety of cells that form a tumor neoplasm;
• the presence of metastatic cells inside organs or in distant areas;
• response of the lymph nodes.

Before prescribing treatment, the doctor always evaluates the likelihood of negative consequences and complications characteristic of the chosen therapy. Based on these factors, key indications for prescribing are calculated. Chemotherapy for lung cancer is the right way to successful patient recovery. Among the indications for the procedure are especially distinguished:

• oncological disease;
• leukemia;
• rhabdomyosarcoma;
• hemoblastosis;
• chorioncarcinoma.

Contraindications for chemotherapy

Contraindications for lung cancer chemotherapy are developed based on a variety of conditions. The group of factors that form the list of contraindications is similar to the indications: age, chronic diseases, stage, etc. Key prohibitive conditions for chemotherapy:

• thrombocytopenia.
• The development of infectious foci during exacerbations.
• Pregnancy. A woman should be especially careful in the first trimester.
• Renal failure.
• Liver failure.
• Heart failure.
• A sharp decrease in body weight.
• Metastasis to the liver.
• Metastasis to the brain.
• Severe intoxication of organs and the body as a whole.
• Cachexia is the absolute exhaustion of the body with weight loss.
• An increased amount of bilirubin, signaling the intensive destruction of red blood cells.

These contraindications can always be adjusted. The attending physician first of all eliminates the restrictions present, and then special chemotherapy is performed. Only an oncologist is able to calculate the possibility of prescribing such therapy. The final decision is made after the patient undergoes special studies and analyzes the information received. It must be understood that chemotherapy procedures have a detrimental effect on the body and human health.

Conducting chemotherapy

Chemical preparations are administered by intravenous drip method. Dosing of drugs and the mode of use are signed depending on the selected treatment regimen. The key points of therapy are compiled on a personal basis for individual patients. At the end of the next course of chemical procedures, they take a break, allowing the human body to return to normal and recover. The duration of the break is from 1 to 5 weeks. Then the course is repeated.

Together with chemotherapy, the patient undergoes additional maintenance therapy. Treatment helps improve a person's quality of life. Before undergoing treatment, the patient is examined. Based on the obtained blood results and other indicators, further therapy is adjusted. The doctor may reduce the dosage or delay the course of therapy until the body recovers.

Treatment requires 4-6 sessions. The course lasts 3 months. The indicated time is enough to overcome the oncological pathology of the lungs with minimal negative impact. As additional methods of administering medicinal substances, there are:

• through an artery associated with tumor tissues;
• through the oral cavity;
• injection under the skin;
• introduction to neoplasm;
• intramuscularly.

Medicines for lung cancer

Treatment of lung cancer with anti-cancer drugs is carried out in two ways:

• cancer cells are destroyed through the action of a single drug;
• medicinal substances are used in combination with other medicines.

Individual preparations from the market assortment differ in personal schemes of action and specific effects on cancerous tissues. The stage of development of the oncological process is the estimated effectiveness of drug treatment. Chemotherapy for lung cancer requires the use of the following drugs.

Alkylating agents - the effect on the affected cells occurs at the molecular level:

• Nitrosoureas are derivatives of urea. They are characterized by anticancer activity.
• Cyclophosphamide - is prescribed together with other components against a tumor when diagnosing lung pathology.
• Embihin - tablets provoke DNA destabilization and block the spread of tumor tissues.

Antimetabolites are therapeutic components that block vital processes in the affected tissues, due to which the particles are inhibited. The most effective are:

• 5-fluorouracil - able to change the composition of RNA. Prevents the separation of cancerous elements.
• Cytarabine is known for its anti-leukemic properties.
• Methotrexate - inhibits the tumor, cell division and the spread of malignant growths.

Anthracyclines - consist of components that have a successful negative effect on the cancer process:

• Rubomycin - will help in the antibacterial and anti-cancer area.
• Adriblastin - belongs to the group of antibiotics with antitumor properties.

Vinca alkaloids - the preparations include herbs and plants that prevent the separation of atypical cellular structures and destroy lesions:

• Vindesine - is considered a derivative of Vinblastine on a semi-synthetic basis.
• Vinblastine - developed from the element of periwinkle rose. Securely clogs tubulin and prevents cell division.
• Vincristine is an analogue of Vinblastine.

Epipodophyllotoxins are drugs synthesized in a similar way with the active ingredient from mandrake extract:

• Teniposide - acts as an anti-cancer agent. It is a derivative of Podophyllotoxin on a semi-synthetic basis. In tablets, the roots of podophyllum thyroid are ground.
• Etoposide is an analogue of Podophyllotoxin on a semi-synthetic basis.

The intake of these medications takes place according to a specific scheme drawn up. The development of a schematic use of drugs is the task of the attending physician, depending on the person's well-being. Medicinal substances can cause unpleasant side effects. Chemotherapy for lung cancer is difficult and requires a serious attitude to the existing rules and recommendations.

Adverse reactions and possible complications

Drug therapy is aimed at inhibiting the processes of division of malignant cells and the complete destruction of cancerous foci. However, in addition to the favorable results of the treatment, there are a number of unpleasant side effects and there is a high probability of complications. The increased toxicity of the drugs used causes many systemic disorders in the body. Common side effects of chemotherapy for lung cancer:

• Gastrointestinal disorders - diarrhea and constipation.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Baldness.
• Destruction of leukocytes, erythrocytes and platelets.
• Additional side infectious processes.
• Constant fatigue, severe fatigue.
• The occurrence of bruises and bumps.
• Fragility and fragility of the nail plate.
• Headache, migraine, drowsiness.
• Osteoporosis.
• Hormone imbalance, especially in women.
• The formation of ulcers in the oral cavity and on the mucous membrane of the tongue.
• Decrease or lack of appetite.
• High probability of getting infectious bacteria due to a low level of leukocytes in the blood.
• The formation of bleeding as a result of a decrease in the volume of red blood cells.
• Complexities of hematopoiesis (hematopoiesis).
• Fertility disorder.
• Failure of the functioning of the digestive tract, the appearance of dyspeptic pathologies.
• Violation of mental health, problems with the emotional level, the appearance of depression.
• The formation of secondary infectious foci due to a decrease in the body's immune system.

If adverse reactions occur during the course of therapy, you need to contact the clinic, take tests and undergo an examination. Upon receipt of the tests, the doctor adjusts the treatment method. If a person notices unpleasant consequences in himself, the situation is reported to the attending doctor without fail. It is strictly forbidden to correct the therapy regimen or independently deal with the complications that have arisen.

Nutrition during chemotherapy

During the fight against oncological lung disease, the patient's body is noticeably depleted, the cause of people's weakness is noted. As a result of procedures using chemicals, the body has a powerful detrimental effect. During the passage of drug therapy, appetite often worsens and decreases. Therefore, it is important to saturate the human body with essential trace elements, useful vitamins and minerals.

The diet after chemotherapy for lung cancer does not differ in specific features. It is important to balance the diet and fill the dishes with a maximum of important components for maintaining and restoring health. Many foods are mandatory excluded from the diet. The following types are prohibited:

• canned food;
• confectionery food, sweets;
• fatty, spicy and smoked dishes;
• dishes prepared from low-grade meat - sausages and smoked products;
• alcohol-containing liquids;
• caffeine.

Chemotherapy negatively affects the level of proteins in the body. Particular attention is paid to protein products. The microelement greatly accelerates the process of rehabilitation of the patient. Recommended for use:

• protein-rich foods - nuts (walnuts, peanuts, almonds), chicken meat, eggs, legumes;
• carbohydrates - potatoes, rice, types of pasta assortment;
• dairy products - cottage cheese dishes, fermented milk products (kefir, fermented baked milk, bifidok), yogurts;
• seafood - low-fat or fat-free fish, blue algae;
• vegetables and fruits, regardless of how they are prepared;
• drink plenty of fluids - it helps to quickly remove toxins and harmful bacteria from the body. Water can be replaced with weak tea and berry compotes.

During and after chemotherapy, patients are advised to consult a professional nutritionist. Nutrition is an important part of a successful recovery. The diet affects the general well-being of the patient, the state of organs and systems. Useful products contribute to the accelerated recovery of a person.

Survival prognosis

Life expectancy after chemotherapy is the final part of predicting treatment. All patients want to achieve a positive outcome. Survival prognosis is based on a group of conditions. The dominant factor is the diagnosed stage in the development of an oncological disease, from which the first procedure is performed. If the stage of the disease is late, the patient's life expectancy is significantly reduced.

A positive result depends on the structure of the neoplasm. The best known is small cell carcinoma. Pathology is characterized by increased aggressiveness and predicts a negative outcome. Life expectancy in lung cancer of this type increases 5 times. In this case, the likelihood of a positive result does not arise. In 3% of cases, patients live for more than 5 years. The average life expectancy is in the range of 1-5 years. With the appearance of a relapse of the disease, the result worsens.

Non-small cell cancer is cured through surgery. Chemotherapy is prescribed after excision of tumor tissues. The outcome for the NCRL is positive. In 15% of cases, patients live 5 years. The average life expectancy reaches 3 years. If cancer cells have penetrated other organs, at the 4th stage of the progression of oncology, even the most powerful medications will not have the desired result. Cancer tissues adapt to therapeutic substances, which is why the chemical procedure already acts as a palliative one.

During the period of chemotherapy, the patient faces difficulties. However, therapy is essential. Modern treatment regimens are able to prolong the life of the patient, and an improvement in quality is achieved. Regardless of statistical information, it is impossible to calculate an accurate prognosis of patient survival.

The effectiveness of chemotherapy

There is a tangible effectiveness of chemotherapy in lung cancer. However, in order to enhance the effectiveness of the medications used and guarantee a positive outcome, complex combinations are required. The appearance of side effects is not a sign of poor performance of the chosen treatment method. Success and accelerated recovery are influenced by a group of factors.

Of particular importance is the stage of development of pathology and the stage of detection of progressive cancer. An important role is played by the qualifications of the attending doctors, the equipment of the clinic and the knowledge of the staff in resolving difficult situations. The effectiveness of treatment is not based solely on the use of medications.

The histological composition of tumor growths influences the prescription of chemotherapy, the choice of drug, and the coordination of the method of therapy. Cyclophosphamide, Methotrexate, Vincristine, Mitomycin, Etoposide, Adriamycin, Cisplatin and Nitrosomethylurea are called as favorable and effective medicines. Each component has its own unpleasant consequence. However, it is said with confidence about the effectiveness of chemotherapy, which reduces the mortality of patients.

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The course of chemotherapy lasts cyclically, for several days. Usually it is prescribed in tablets, administered intravenously, but sometimes it is done on an outpatient basis. After that, doctors give a few days for the patient's body to recover from side effects. At this time, doctors are actively studying the effects of chemotherapy in lung cancer, and then decide whether and how to continue.

In the world there are more than 60 types of drugs for the treatment of cancer. Here are the most used ones, as well as their combinations:

• Carboplantin and paclitaxel;
• Vinoreobin and cyplastin/carboplantin;
• gemcitabine and cyplastin/carboplatin;
• mitomycin, ifosfamide and cisplatin;
• Etopoposit and carboplatin.

The course of chemotherapy for each is selected for each individual, depending on the characteristics of the body and based on the characteristics of the type of cancer.

As soon as the patient has gone all the way to recovery, he is prescribed a fairly strict diet, which is vital to follow. Although in fact, in the vast majority of cases, limited nutrition during chemotherapy is present throughout the entire process. Small meals are also important.

Here is the main list of foods strictly prohibited when eating after chemotherapy:

• Food containing a large amount of sugar or its substitute (sweets, pastries);
• Food with preservatives/additives;
• Alcohol and strong drinks (coffee, cocoa);
• Fatty, fried food;
• Smoked foods (sausage, fish), any marinades are poorly digested.

As for what is possible with nutrition after chemotherapy, the list is very small:

• Chicken eggs;
• Dairy products;
• Peanut butter, almonds, soy and beans;
• Fruits/boiled vegetables: from tomatoes to apricots;
• Various greens;
• Of meat, only poultry and rabbit meat;
• Green tea, herbal tinctures, carefully purified water.

Eating like this during or after chemotherapy for lung cancer certainly has a huge impact on weight. The body is rapidly losing the substances it needs, the person is losing weight. In order to recover and restore body weight to the optimal value at an accelerated pace, doctors recommend focusing on foods containing a large amount of protein. It is also mandatory to add seasonings such as curry, oregano, cinnamon to them, so the patient will return the sensation of taste.

Chemotherapy is used extremely intensively, since in this case metastases quickly spread throughout the body. In the last phase of the disease, a person begins to have difficulty speaking and the ability to swallow, move, puffiness of the neck, chest, head, limbs (superior vena cava syndrome) is formed.

In this case, chemotherapy is the main expensive way to recover from non-small cell cancer, which can also be combined with radiation or radiotherapy.

Two drug lines for stage 4 lung cancer

1. The first line is distinguished by the following feature - treatment is started with a mixture of platinoids, gemcitabine, vinorelbine and several other drugs. Experience has shown that it is in this way, and not by using one drug at a time, that the maximum effect is achieved.
2. The second line is used if oncology is completely indifferent to the above methods of treatment. Then specialists prescribe to patients the same platenoids, but with the addition of Docetaxel or targeted mixtures. These drugs do not have any side effects, since they provide for the absence of toxic effects on the body.

As for the special diet for lung cancer at the last 4th stage , then it does not change.

The dietary menu is strictly observed at any stage, both during treatment and for an individually set time after recovery.