Understanding Temodar VS. PCV Chemotherapy
Temozolomide/Temodar:
This was the option I chose. I thought it would be best for me.
Temozolomide (Temodar) is an oral chemotherapy drug and is a medication commonly used in the treatment of certain types of brain tumors. It works by damaging the DNA in cancer cells, which inhibits their ability to grow and divide. This helps slow down or stop the progression of the tumor.
The use of temozolomide is typically prescribed by a medical oncologist or neuro-oncologist, and the dosing and treatment schedule can vary depending on the specific type of cancer, its stage (or grade), and individual patient factors. It may be used in combination with other treatments, such as radiation therapy (which I did!), to maximize its effectiveness.
As with any chemotherapy drug, Temodar can have side effects, which may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and a decreased white blood cell count. Patients receiving temozolomide are usually closely monitored by their healthcare team to manage and minimize these side effects and to assess the drug's effectiveness in treating the cancer.
Personally, my side effects were primarily nausea and fatigue. I also had quite a bit of food aversion towards meat, sugar, fried food, and anything heavy. I found myself eating lots of vegetables and light meals throughout the day whenever I was taking the Temodar. See my cravings blog post if you want to see what I ate throughout the process. I also drank a TON of water because I noticed it made me feel better.
VS.
PCV:
I DID NOT go with this option. So, I don’t know a ton about it.
PCV chemotherapy is a cancer treatment regimen that consists of three different drugs: Procarbazine (P), Lomustine (C), and Vincristine (V). This combination of drugs is used primarily in the treatment of brain tumors, particularly gliomas. The goal of PCV chemotherapy is to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells in the brain.
Here's how the PCV chemotherapy regimen is typically administered:
Procarbazine (P): Procarbazine is usually taken in the form of capsules. It is an oral chemotherapy drug, which means patients swallow it as a pill or liquid.
Lomustine (C): Lomustine, also known as CCNU, is typically administered in capsule form. Patients take it by mouth.
Vincristine (V): Vincristine is administered intravenously (through a vein). This drug is given as an injection, and it is usually administered in a hospital or clinic setting.
The administration schedule and dosage of these drugs can vary depending on the specific cancer diagnosis and the treatment plan outlined by the oncologist. Patients receiving PCV chemotherapy typically follow a specific schedule that includes taking these drugs in a certain sequence and at specific intervals. The treatment schedule is determined by the healthcare provider to optimize its effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
It's essential for patients receiving PCV chemotherapy to closely follow their doctor's instructions and report any side effects or concerns promptly. Chemotherapy can have various side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and decreased blood cell counts, which may require supportive care or adjustments to the treatment plan. Keep in mind that cancer treatment regimens, including chemotherapy, are highly individualized based on the patient's specific cancer type, stage, overall health, and other factors. Patients should discuss the details of their treatment plan and any concerns they may have with their healthcare team.
