Temozolomide in malignant gliomas: current use and future targets

Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 2009 Sep;64(4):647-55. doi: 10.1007/s00280-009-1050-5. Epub 2009 Jun 19.

Abstract

Temozolomide (TMZ) is an oral alkylating agent that is regarded as a tolerable and effective drug. When combined with radiotherapy in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma, survival is significantly prolonged. This finding has led to widespread use of TMZ for patients with this disease. We summarize developing concerns regarding the use of TMZ, imaging of malignant gliomas, and the pharmacology of TMZ-mechanism of action, scheduling and strategies for overcoming resistance.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / pharmacokinetics
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / therapeutic use*
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Dacarbazine / adverse effects
  • Dacarbazine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Dacarbazine / pharmacokinetics
  • Dacarbazine / pharmacology
  • Dacarbazine / therapeutic use
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
  • Glioma / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Temozolomide

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating
  • Dacarbazine
  • Temozolomide