Other drugs such as paclitaxel and irinotecan are currently being studied to determine their effectiveness in treating mesothelioma. Chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells but also damage some normal cells. Therefore, careful attention must be given to avoiding or minimizing side effects, which depend on the specific drugs, the amount taken, and the length of treatment. Temporary side effects might include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, loss of hair, and mouth sores. Because chemotherapy can damage the blood-producing cells of the bone marrow, patients may have low blood cell counts.
Most side effects disappear once treatment is stopped.
There are remedies for many of the temporary side effects of chemotherapy. For example, antiemetic drugs can be given to prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting. If you experience any side effects, be sure to talk with your doctor. Click here to browse through related medical literature, articles and abstracts. If you have any questions regarding treatment options or your legal rights, please contact us .