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ALIMTA

Alimta, also known the generic name pemetrexed, has been one of the most exciting developments in treatment of mesothelioma in recent years. In 2003 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a combination of Alimta and Cisplatin for treatment of mesothelioma. Alimta is therefore the first medicine sanctioned by the FDA specifically to treat mesothelioma. Cisplatin, the other half of the combination therapy, is an older chemotherapy agent used for many types of cancer.

Alimta is not a cure for mesothelioma, but clinical trials have shown it is associated with an increased survival for mesothelioma patients. Scientifically, an antifolate antineoplastic agent that disrupts folate-dependent metabolic processes. To lower the chances of side effects with Alimta, patients are given folic acid and vitamin B12 before, during, and after treatment.

MesotheliomaWeb has been following the Alimta story for years.

Questions and Answers about Alimta

Australia Adds Alimta to Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme - Jan 2008

New study affirms benefit of Alimta in mesothelioma treatment. - Sept 2007

Alimta Researchers Recognized As Heroes Of Chemistry - Sept 2006

Scientist Reveals His Hopes for Better Tumour Treatment with Alimta - March 2006

Thoracic Cancer Patients Find New Reasons for Hope with Alimta - July 2005

Mesothelioma Cancer drug developed by chemistry professor

Thoracic Expert: Patients With Asbestos-Related Cancer Report Better Quality of Life With Alimta+Cisplatin - June 2003

1,000th U.S. Patient Enrolls in Alimta (pemetrexed) Expanded Access Program - Oct 2003

FDA Approves Alima for Mesothelioma

Lilly Asbestos-Related Cancer Drug OK'd - Reuters