Temozolomide and other potential agents for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme

Neurosurg Clin N Am. 2012 Apr;23(2):307-22, ix. doi: 10.1016/j.nec.2012.01.007.

Abstract

This article provides historical and recent perspectives related to the use of temozolomide for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme. Temozolomide has quickly become part of the standard of care for the modern treatment of stage IV glioblastoma multiforme since its approval in 2005. Yet despite its improvements from previous therapies, median survival remains approximately 15 months, with a 2-year survival rate of 8% to 26%. The mechanism of action of this chemotherapeutic agent, conferred advantages and limitations, treatment resistance and rescue, and potential targets of future research are discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / therapeutic use*
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Dacarbazine / analogs & derivatives*
  • Dacarbazine / therapeutic use
  • Glioblastoma / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Temozolomide
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating
  • Dacarbazine
  • Temozolomide