View source for Fotemustine

{{TreatmentInfo
|drug_name=Fotemustine
|FDA_approval=Available in Europe, not FDA-approved in the United States for GBM
|used_for=Recurrent Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) after the standard Stupp protocol treatment
|clinical_trial_phase=Varied, with multiple studies evaluating efficacy and optimal scheduling
|common_side_effects=Not specified, typical of nitrosoureas may include myelosuppression, nausea, and liver enzyme elevation
|OS_without=Not specified
|OS_with=Not specified; however, survival six months after recurrence was used as a primary measure in comparative studies with Avastin
|PFS_without=Not applicable
|PFS_with=Ranges from 26 to 44% with different schedules; 61% PFS-6 with the best results obtained using a specific dosing schedule
|usefulness_rating=Based on available data, potentially highly useful in specific dosing schedules
|usefulness_explanation=Fotemustine has shown promising results in patients with recurrent GBM, especially when administered every two weeks for five consecutive treatments at a dose of 80 mg/sq.-meter followed by maintenance therapy every four weeks. This regimen resulted in a PFS-6 value of 61% and a median time to progression of 6.7 months, indicating potential as an effective treatment option in this setting.
|toxicity_level=3
|toxicity_explanation=While specific common side effects were not detailed, nitrosoureas typically present with myelosuppression, nausea, and potential for liver enzyme elevation. The toxicity profile necessitates careful monitoring and management, similar to other agents in its class.
|book_text=Fotemustine represents a newer addition to the nitrosourea family of chemotherapeutics, showing efficacy in treating recurrent GBM post-Stupp protocol. Its unique dosing schedule, which has yielded higher PFS-6 values, suggests fotemustine as a viable option for patients who have failed initial treatments. Continued research and direct comparisons, such as those conducted in Italian studies, further support its role in the treatment landscape for GBM, albeit with a need for careful consideration of toxicity management.
|category=Other chemotherapy agents at recurrence
}}