June 3, 2014 – Gemzar, also known as gemcitabine, is a chemotherapy drug that can slow the growth and spread of mesothelioma by interfering with the genetic material, which then kills the cell. Gemzar has been used to treat a variety of other cancers including breast, pancreatic, ovarian and lung cancer. High doses of Gemzar have been administered to patients in a short 30-minute infusion. Recently, Mexican researchers studied the effectiveness and toxicity of administering a low-dose prolonged infusion of Gemzar given over a six hour time period. The treatment is more cost effective and affordable when administered in this manner allowing more mesothelioma patients to obtain this treatment, which in turn could prolong their lives. The researchers at the National Cancer Institute of Mexico conducted a Phase II clinical study that included 39 patients with advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma disease. All of the patients received the low-dose Gemzar along with cisplatin. The results were encouraging. The overall median survival rate was 20.7 months. A partial response was noted in 53.8 % of the patients and disease stabilization was achieved in 33.3 % of the participants. Only 12.8 % of the patients failed to respond. Patients reported improved quality of life and symptom control such as pain levels, insomnia and shortness of breath. The study results can be found in the online journal Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology.
Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers at the Shein Law: Advocates for Mesothelioma Patients and Their Families in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
The mesothelioma lawyers at Shein Law have fought for the rights of individuals exposed to asbestos and their families for over 30 years. Our law offices are conveniently located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Pennsauken, New Jersey. Call us today at 1-877-SHEINLAW (743-4652) to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced New Jersey mesothelioma lawyers or submit an online inquiry.