Myzotem 250mg Capsule

About

Temozolomide is an oral alkylating chemotherapeutic agent specifically designed for the treatment of certain aggressive brain tumors, including glioblastoma multiforme and anaplastic astrocytoma. It functions as a prodrug, meaning it is inactive until it undergoes rapid chemical conversion at physiological pH to its active metabolite, MTIC (5-(3-methyl-1-triazen-1-yl)imidazole-4-carboxamide). MTIC exerts its cytotoxic effects by methylating DNA at various critical sites, predominantly at the O6 and N7 positions of guanine bases. This methylation leads to DNA damage, mispairing during replication, and ultimately triggers apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in rapidly dividing cancer cells. A key advantage of temozolomide is its lipophilicity, which enables it to efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier, making it particularly effective against central nervous system malignancies where many other chemotherapeutic agents struggle to penetrate. It is often used in combination with radiation therapy to enhance its therapeutic impact.

Uses

• Newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme
• Refractory anaplastic astrocytoma
• Other high-grade gliomas
• Certain neuroendocrine tumors (off-label)

Directions For Use

Take orally on an empty stomach, usually once daily for a specific number of days per cycle, as prescribed by an oncologist. Swallow capsules whole with water.

Benefits

• Effective against certain brain tumors.
• Oral administration offers convenience.
• Crosses the blood-brain barrier effectively.
• Can be used in combination with radiation therapy.
• May improve progression-free survival.
• Generally well-tolerated compared to some IV chemotherapies.

Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Myelosuppression (low blood counts)
• Constipation
• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Rash
• Infection risk
• Liver enzyme elevation
• Opportunistic infections (e.g., PCP)

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid alcohol during treatment as it may worsen nausea, fatigue, or liver side effects.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated in pregnancy due to significant risk of fetal harm. Use effective contraception during and after treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding due to the potential for serious adverse effects in the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment; close monitoring of liver function is essential.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment; monitoring of kidney function is advised.
• Lung - Monitor for signs of pneumonitis, a rare but serious side effect, especially in patients with pre-existing lung conditions.

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