Chemotherapy involves the use of medications to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is part of most cancer treatment regimens, including lung cancer, both small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Typically, two or more medications are used in the treatment plan to increase the effectiveness of the drugs. Depending on the type of cancer being treated, the extent of spread and the general health of the patient, chemotherapy treatment involves cycles, with periods of treatment followed by weeks without treatment, to allow the body to recuperate; this typically lasts several months.
Gemcitabine (Gemzar)
Gemcitabine, also known as the brand-name drug Gemzar, is an antimetabolite chemotherapy drug that interferes with the production of RNA and DNA by cells, which causes cell death. Gemcitabine is typically given intravenously over 30 minutes, and for lung cancer, a commonly used treatment regimen is weekly for three weeks, then a week off. Common side effects include a lowered white and red blood cell count (increasing risk of infection and anemia), nausea, vomiting, fatigue and loss of appetite. This medication may also affect the liver, and a doctor will monitor the patient with frequent blood tests.
Etoposide (Toposar)
Etoposide, the generic version of Toposar, can be used in treating small cell lung cancer. It is a plant alkaloid that interferes with an enzyme cells need to survive; when this enzyme is blocked, it causes cell death. This medication can be given intravenously over 30 to 60 minutes, or orally as a capsule. Side effects can include lowered white and red blood cell counts, nausea or vomiting, hair loss and appetite loss. Another side effect is called peripheral neuropathy, which is a result of nerve damage, causing burning, numbness, and temperature sensitivity in the hands and feet. Peripheral neuropathy may subside after treatment, but in some people, it is long-lasting or permanent.
Irinotecan (Camptosar)
Irinotecan, the generic name for Camptosar, is typically used with other chemotherapy drugs in the treatment of small cell lung cancer. It is a plant alkaloid chemotherapy drug that works similarly to etoposide, and is given intravenously over 90 minutes. Irinotecan can cause lowered white blood cell counts, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hair loss and loss of appetite.
Cisplatin (Platinol)
Cisplatin, also known as Platinol, can also be combined with other chemotherapy drugs to treat lung cancer. It is an alkylating chemotherapy drug that prevents cancer cells from growing and causes cell death. The medication is typically given intravenously over an hour or longer, and the patient will likely also receive fluids with the medication to flush it out of the body, as cisplatin may cause kidney damage. To help prevent this, patients drink lots of fluids during treatment, and doctors will monitor kidney function during and after treatment. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, lowered white and red blood cell counts, taste changes, and swelling in the feet and hands. This drug, like etoposide, may also cause peripheral neuropathy.
