Findings of a clinical trial sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company and conducted in Japan have confirmed that a combination of Pemetrexed (a chemotherapy drug also known as Alimta) and Cisplatin (also a chemotherapy drug that causes apoptosis, or the death of cancerous cells) is not only safe, but is also very effective in treating patients suffering from malignant pleural mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is caused by previous exposure to asbestos and occurs in the pleura, or lining of the lung cavity.
The trial followed about 20 participants of both genders between the ages of 20 and 75, all who suffered from pleural mesothelioma cancer. Participants were not eligible for curative surgery and had not received chemotherapy treatment prior to the study. All participants had visible and measurable cancerous tumors.
Pemetrexed was engineered to interfere with the reproduction and spread of cancerous cells within the body by preventing the production of three key enzymes that are necessary for cell growth. When administered with Cisplatin, it is highly effective in preventing the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.
Participants received two cycles of Pemetrexed-plus-Cisplatin chemotherapy treatment while in the hospital and were monitored throughout their course of treatment. The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare supervised the trial alongside cancer researchers and other specialists from Eli Lilly and Company, which manufactures Pemetrexed. Eli Lilly and Company employs over 7,000 people worldwide, including oncologists, scientists, biotechnicians, and chemists.
The findings of the clinical trial are encouraging for oncologists and cancer researchers, as well as patients suffering from malignant mesothelioma cancer. The combination of Pemetrexed and Cisplatin has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an initial method of treatment for patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma, as well as those suffering from non-small-cell lung cancer.
Additional information about the clinical trial findings, including updates on the overall health and survival rates of the participants, will be available in the coming months.
Mesothelioma.com encourages patients suffering from malignant pleural mesothelioma cancer to speak with their doctor to determine whether or not they are ideal candidates for a clinical drug trial. Clinical trials are often an effective method of mesothelioma treatment for patients who opt to participate. As with any cancer treatment method, clinical trials do pose certain risks. Your doctor will be able to advise you as to whether or not a clinical trial is a good option for you.
For more information about mesothelioma cancer, mesothelioma treatment options, clinical trials, and more, please visit Mesothelioma.com.
