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Temozolomide
People who have certain types of brain tumors may benefit from chemotherapy treatment with temozolomide. This prescription medicine works by disrupting the multiplication process of cancer cells. Possible side effects may include hair loss, vomiting, and loss of appetite. This drug is taken as a capsule or given intravenously (by IV).
Temozolomide (Temodar®) is a prescription medication approved to treat certain types of cancerous brain tumors. Specifically, it is used to treat tumors known as anaplastic astrocytoma and glioblastoma multiforme. Temozolomide may be used alone or in combination with radiation treatment.
(Click What Is Temozolomide Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like any chemotherapy medicine, temozolomide can cause side effects, some of which can be significant and potentially serious. In fact, most people will experience some type of side effect during treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider about ways to prevent or lessen reactions to this drug.
Common side effects of temozolomide include but are not limited to:
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite.
(Click Temozolomide Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD