Although the term “chemotherapy” is synonymous with cancer treatments, the truth is that chemotherapy is not suitable for all forms of cancer. In some cases, treatments with chemotherapy drugs have been considered completely useless. However, Alimta Chemotherapy has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of pleural mesothelioma and other specific forms of lung cancer. Quite like other chemotherapy treatments, Alimta Chemotherapy is also associated with several side effects, which need to be effectively managed with the help of various precautions. A lot depends on how well you communicate with your doctor and how informed you are about the whole process. Your overall approach towards the treatment will help a great deal in minimizing the negative after effects of treatments.
Alimta Chemotherapy: What You Need to Do
To begin with, let your oncologist know everything about your current and past medical condition, before he can suggest Alimta Chemotherapy as a treatment option for you. If you are pregnant, planning to have a baby or have just delivered, your doctor needs to know about your condition. If you are breastfeeding, tell your doctor before he prescribes any medication for you.
Similarly, if you have had a history of kidney ailments in the past, or have suffered from ascites, pleural effusions or related allergies, inform the oncologist so that he can take suitable decisions regarding your cancer treatment. If you have been detected as allergic to Alimta, inform the doctor so that he can seek suitable substitutions for Alimta Chemotherapy. If you are on any other drugs or even herbal supplements, you need to inform your oncologist about them so that potentially harmful drug interactions can be prevented.
Many of the negative repercussions of Alimta can be minimized by consuming Vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements. However, it is best to seek your doctor’s advised on this.
Alimta Chemotherapy: Warnings
Before starting with the treatment, it is important to come to terms with the various dangers associated with Alimta Chemotherapy. These include:
This treatment has been associated with a reduction in red and white blood cell count. Decrease in the WBC count can lead to lower immunity, while lowering of the RBC count can lead to anemia. A low platelet count might also lead to severe repercussions. If you are suffering from a condition where the platelet count is low to start with, there could be problems with blood clotting in the event of injuries and nominal cuts. Therefore, an extremely cautious approach is advised in such cases. Sometimes the levels might dip dangerously low, which can be potentially life threatening and warrant immediate medical attention.
Sometimes, Alimta could be responsible for itchy skin rashes, which can be painfully disturbing. Seek medical assistance in such cases. Your doctor will be able to prescribe corticosteroids or other medication to control such side effects.
These are the most common warnings and precautions, which need to be kept in perspective before starting off with Alimta Chemotherapy.