About temozolomide
Alkylating chemotherapy medicine
Used for
- Treats newly diagnosed glioblastoma with radiotherapy, then alone
- Treats certain recurrent brain tumors, including glioblastoma and anaplastic astrocytoma
Usual adult dose
Newly diagnosed glioblastoma: 75 mg/m² daily during radiotherapy, then 150–200 mg/m² daily for 5 days every 28 days. Other uses vary.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 3 years and older with certain recurrent brain tumors: usually 150–200 mg/m² daily for 5 days every 28 days.
Common side effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and headache
- Low blood counts, increasing infection or bleeding risk
- Constipation and loss of appetite
Important warnings
- Can cause severe bone-marrow suppression; blood tests are required.
- Can cause serious infections, including Pneumocystis pneumonia, especially with radiotherapy.
- May harm an unborn baby; effective contraception is important during treatment.
- Swallow capsules whole; avoid opening or crushing them.
Pregnancy
May cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy unless a specialist determines treatment is essential.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for one week after the final dose.
Interactions
- Valproic acid may increase temozolomide exposure.
- Other medicines that suppress bone marrow can increase blood-count problems.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.