This past year has seen shortages in all types of high-demand consumer items, but recent reports of a shortage of cancer drugs have malignant mesothelioma patients and their physicians concerned. According to a survey of National Comprehensive Cancer Network-designated cancer centers, shortages of carboplatin and cisplatin are a real concern.
Will Chemotherapy Drug Shortage Impact Mesothelioma Treatment?
Malignant mesothelioma is a fatal form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Though researchers are constantly working to find new protocols, the most common treatment of the aggressive disease is a multimodality protocol that combines surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
Most mesothelioma patients receive the drug Alimta in combination with the platinum-based drug cisplatin: this chemotherapy “cocktail” may be administered before or after surgery, or on its own in patients whose tumors are considered nonresectable. That treatment approach may need to be modified in response to a shortage of cisplatin, as well as of another platinum-based drug called carboplatin.
Shortage of Mesothelioma Drug Blamed on Multiple Factors
Carboplatin and cisplatin are not just used for mesothelioma patients. In fact, the rare malignancy is one of many types of cancer for which the drugs have been approved. According to experts, problems with manufacturers have combined with the aging population’s rising need for the drug, as well as with the increased number of cancers being diagnosed.
According to the author of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network’s survey, cancer centers are aware of the shortages and are taking steps to ensure that patients continue to receive care. Some of the mitigating efforts may include slight decreases in the amount of the drugs being administered or lengthening the time between treatments: both are approaches that he said would not impact patient outcomes. He also said that the problems are likely to last another three or four months until the drug manufacturers can resolve their internal issues.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, it is important to receive care at the most advanced cancer centers. For information on where to get treatment and other resources, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608.
