Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

It’s important to know about medication for brain tumours for good care. New research has found new ways to fight brain tumors. At Liv Hospital, we focus on our patients and keep up with new treatments.

We’ll look at the main brain tumor medications and treatments. This includes FDA-approved drugs and new targeted treatments. Our aim is to give a full view of brain cancer treatment options.

Key Takeaways

• Overview of available brain tumor medications and therapies
• FDA-approved drugs for brain cancer treatment
• Newer targeted treatments for improved care
• Importance of patient-focused care in brain tumor treatment
• Liv Hospital’s commitment to advancing brain cancer care

The Critical Role of Brain Tumor Medication in Treatment

Medication is key in treating brain cancer. Brain tumors are complex and need a mix of treatments. Medication is a big part of this, used with surgery and radiation.

Types of Brain Tumors and Treatment Approaches

Brain tumors vary by type, grade, and location. Glioblastoma (GBM) is very aggressive and needs strong treatment. Medication helps manage symptoms and slow the disease.

• Low-grade gliomas: Watchful waiting, then surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
• High-grade gliomas: Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy with GBM chemotherapy drugs are needed.
• Meningiomas: Usually benign, treated with surgery. Sometimes, radiation or medication is needed.

How Medications Complement Surgery and Radiation

Medications help with surgery and radiation. Brain tumor chemotherapy drugs target cancer cells left after other treatments. This helps prevent the cancer from coming back.

Research shows that combining treatments improves outcomes. For example, Temozolomide has helped glioblastoma patients live longer.

Understanding brain tumors and how medications work with other treatments is important. It shows how vital brain tumor treatment is in fighting this disease.

Challenges in Developing Effective Brain Cancer Drugs

Creating effective brain cancer drugs is tough. One big problem is getting drugs past the blood-brain barrier. This barrier is like a protective shield around the brain.

Overcoming the Blood-Brain Barrier

The blood-brain barrier is a major hurdle for brain cancer treatments. This barrier keeps the brain safe, but it blocks many drugs. Scientists are working on ways to get drugs through, like making drugs that can pass through or using technology to open the barrier.

Some studies suggest that giving chemotherapy directly to the brain can work better. But, this method is risky and needs careful thought.

Tumor Heterogeneity and Resistance Mechanisms

Another big challenge is the variety within tumors. A single tumor can have many different types of cancer cells. This makes it hard to find a treatment that works for all cells. Knowing the tumor’s genetic makeup is key to finding effective treatments.

Also, tumors can develop ways to resist treatment. For example, they might use pumps to get rid of drugs. This makes treatments less effective.

To tackle these issues, researchers are looking into using combination therapies. These treatments aim to target different parts of the tumor and its surroundings. By understanding and addressing these complexities, we can make brain cancer drugs more effective.

Temozolomide (Temodar): The Gold Standard Medication for Brain Tumours

Temozolomide, also known as Temodar, is a key treatment for glioblastoma, a fast-growing brain cancer. We’ll look at how it works, how it’s given, and its benefits for patients with glioblastoma.

Mechanism of Action and Administration

Temozolomide is a pill that stops cancer cells from growing. It’s easy to take because it’s a capsule. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which makes them die and stops tumors from growing.

Doctors give temozolomide in a special way. It’s often taken with radiation therapy and then as a follow-up treatment. Patients usually take it every day for 42 days, then have a break, and then more treatment.

15-Month Survival Benefit in Glioblastoma

Research shows temozolomide helps glioblastoma patients live longer. Adding temozolomide to radiation therapy can add about 15 months to a patient’s life. This shows how well the drug works against glioblastoma, a cancer with a tough prognosis.

The drug’s ability to reach brain tumors is key to its success. It can get past the blood-brain barrier, targeting and killing cancer cells more effectively.

Morning vs. Evening Dosing: Impact on Efficacy

Studies have looked at when to take temozolomide to see if it makes a difference. Some research suggests evening doses might be better because of how our bodies naturally repair DNA. This could mean taking the drug at the right time could help patients more.

Even though the best time to take temozolomide is not yet clear, using the body’s natural rhythms to time treatment could be a game-changer. More research is needed to figure out the best timing for temozolomide.

Nitrosoureas: Traditional Brain Tumor Chemotherapy Drugs

Nitrosoureas have been key in fighting brain tumors for years. These drugs are a traditional choice for treating different types of brain cancers. They offer a valuable option for patients.

Nitrosoureas belong to a group called alkylating agents. They work by damaging the DNA of cancer cells. This stops them from growing and reproducing. Carmustine (BCNU) and lomustine (CCNU) are two common nitrosoureas used in treatment.

Carmustine (BCNU): Applications and Delivery Methods

Carmustine is used to treat brain tumors like glioblastoma. It’s great because it can get past the blood-brain barrier. This makes it effective against brain tumors.

Carmustine can be given in different ways. It can be given through an IV or directly into the tumor site. The direct method uses wafers filled with carmustine, placed in the tumor during surgery.

Lomustine (CCNU): Usage Protocols and Effectiveness

Lomustine is another drug used for brain tumors. It’s often given with other treatments or radiation. It’s easy to take because it’s given orally.

Lomustine works well on some brain tumors, like glioblastoma. It can get into the brain and target cancer cells. This makes it a key part of treatment plans.

Carmustine and lomustine are used in many cases to treat brain tumors. Studies show they are effective. Each drug has its own strengths and uses in treating brain tumors.

Bevacizumab (Avastin): Targeting Tumor Blood Vessels

Bevacizumab, also known as Avastin, is a big step forward in treating brain tumors. It has been studied and used for many cancers, including glioblastoma, a tough brain cancer.

Inhibiting Angiogenesis

Bevacizumab targets angiogenesis, the making of new blood vessels. Tumors need blood to grow and spread. By blocking VEGF, Bevacizumab cuts off the tumor’s food and oxygen. This is key in fighting glioblastoma and other aggressive brain tumors.

A detailed monograph on Bevacizumab explains, “Bevacizumab’s anti-angiogenic activity has been shown to reduce tumor blood supply, exerting its anti-tumor effects.”

“The inhibition of angiogenesis by Bevacizumab represents a paradigm shift in the treatment of various cancers, including brain tumors.”

Patient Selection and Response Rates

Bevacizumab’s success can differ among patients. Choosing the right patients is key. The tumor’s genetics, the patient’s health, and past treatments matter a lot.

Studies show some glioblastoma patients do well with Bevacizumab, like living longer without their tumor growing. But results vary. Research aims to find out who will benefit most from this treatment.

We keep an eye on Bevacizumab’s progress, like using it with other treatments. As research goes on, we’ll see better ways to use Bevacizumab against brain tumors.

Everolimus: Precision Medicine for Brain Tumor Treatment

Everolimus is a big step forward in treating certain brain tumors. It uses a precision medicine approach. This marks a shift towards more targeted treatments, with Everolimus leading the way.

FDA Approval for Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma

Everolimus got FDA approval for treating subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA). This rare brain tumor mainly affects kids and young adults with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). The drug was shown to shrink SEGA tumors and ease symptoms in clinical trials.

This approval is a big win for SEGA patients. It gives them a much-needed treatment option when other choices are scarce.

mTOR Pathway Inhibition Mechanism

Everolimus works by blocking the mTOR pathway. This pathway is key for cell growth, division, and survival. In TSC, it gets overactive, causing tumors like SEGA to grow.

By stopping the mTOR pathway, Everolimus slows down SEGA tumor growth. This helps ease symptoms and improves patient results.

Everolimus shows the promise of precision medicine in treating brain tumors. As we learn more about brain tumor biology, drugs like Everolimus will become more vital in treatment.

Belzutifan and Abemaciclib: Newer FDA-Approved Options

Recent breakthroughs in brain tumor treatment have led to the FDA approval of belzutifan and abemaciclib. These drugs are major steps forward in the fight against brain tumors. They offer new hope to patients and healthcare providers.

Belzutifan and abemaciclib have been approved for treating various cancers, including brain metastases. Their introduction into clinical practice is a significant step in managing complex brain tumors.

Targeting Hypoxia-Inducible Factor

Belzutifan targets the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) pathway, which is key in tumor growth and progression. By blocking this pathway, belzutifan can slow down or stop tumor growth.

• Belzutifan works by degrading HIF-2α, a protein that promotes tumor growth and angiogenesis.
• Clinical trials have shown promising results for belzutifan in treating certain brain tumors.
• The FDA approval of belzutifan has expanded treatment options for patients with specific brain tumor diagnoses.

CDK Inhibition in Brain Metastases

Abemaciclib is a CDK4/6 inhibitor that has shown effectiveness in treating brain metastases. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier makes it valuable for patients with central nervous system involvement.

1. Abemaciclib has shown it can inhibit tumor growth in the brain, providing a new treatment option for patients with brain metastases.
2. Clinical studies have highlighted the effectiveness of abemaciclib in combination with other therapies to improve treatment outcomes.
3. The FDA approval of abemaciclib for certain indications has marked a significant advancement in managing brain metastases.

Both belzutifan and abemaciclib are important additions to the arsenal of glioblastoma medications and treatments for brain metastases. As research continues, these FDA-approved drugs will likely play increasingly important roles in patient care.

Tumor-Treating Fields (Optune): Revolutionary Non-Drug Therapy

Tumor-Treating Fields, delivered through Optune, are a new way to fight glioblastoma. This therapy has shown great promise. It works well when used with other treatments.

Technology Behind This Alternative to Chemo Tablets for Brain Tumor

The Optune device sends electric fields to stop cancer cells from growing. This non-invasive treatment uses a device that sends fields to the tumor. It works because cancer cells are more damaged by electric fields when they divide.

The device is worn on the scalp, and fields are sent to the tumor. Patients wear it for at least 18 hours a day. It’s a big commitment, but it lets patients do normal things.

Clinical Evidence and Survival Improvements

Studies show Tumor-Treating Fields improve survival rates for glioblastoma patients. A key study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found a big increase in survival. This is when Tumor-Treating Fields are added to treatment.

The evidence for Tumor-Treating Fields is strong. It shows this therapy is a valuable tool against glioblastoma. As research goes on, we’ll see more improvements in this technology.

Combination Approaches: Optimizing Glioblastoma Chemotherapy Drugs

Combination therapy is key in treating glioblastoma. It leads to better survival rates and outcomes for patients. We’ll look at how mixing different treatments can make glioblastoma chemotherapy drugs more effective.

Medication with Concurrent Radiation Therapy

Using chemotherapy with radiation therapy is now common in glioblastoma treatment. This combo can make treatments work better together. Temozolomide is a drug often used with radiation therapy.

Research shows that temozolomide with radiation therapy can greatly improve survival for glioblastoma patients. The Stupp protocol, which includes temozolomide with radiation therapy followed by more temozolomide, is widely accepted.

Adjuvant and Neoadjuvant Protocols

Adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatments are important in glioblastoma care. Adjuvant chemotherapy is given after radiation therapy to kill any leftover cancer cells. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is given before to shrink the tumor and make surgery easier.

Studies have found that adjuvant temozolomide can increase survival for glioblastoma patients. Researchers are working to find the best length and dose of adjuvant temozolomide. Neoadjuvant treatments are also being studied to improve results.

Multi-Drug Regimens for Recurrent Tumors

Dealing with recurrent glioblastoma is tough, and using multiple drugs is often necessary. Combining chemotherapy drugs like bevacizumab with lomustine has shown promise. It can help patients live longer and have better outcomes.

The table shows the benefits of using bevacizumab with lomustine for recurrent glioblastoma. It shows better PFS and OS compared to using one drug alone.

In conclusion, combining treatments has greatly improved glioblastoma care. Using radiation therapy, adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatments, and multi-drug regimens for recurrent tumors is key in managing glioblastoma.

Emerging Brain Cancer Treatments and Clinical Trials

The field of neuro-oncology is making big strides. New treatments are being explored to help brain cancer patients. These advances are key as researchers aim for better, less invasive treatments for this tough disease.

Immunotherapy Approaches for Brain Tumors

Immunotherapy uses the immune system to fight cancer. It’s showing promise in treating brain tumors. Checkpoint inhibitors help the immune system attack cancer cells better. Cancer vaccines also stimulate an immune response against tumor antigens.

Personalized neoantigen-based vaccines are being made to target specific tumor mutations. Early trials suggest these vaccines can significantly reduce tumors in some patients.

Novel Targeted Therapies in Development

Targeted therapies focus on specific molecular issues in tumors. They aim to be more precise and less harmful than traditional chemotherapy. Research is looking into targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), often found in glioblastoma.

BRAF and MEK inhibitors are also being explored. These have shown promise in other cancers and are now being tested for brain cancer treatment.

These new treatments mark a big shift towards more personalized and effective brain cancer therapies. As research continues, we can look forward to even more innovative treatments being tested in clinical trials.

Limitations of Current Medicine for Brain Tumor

Even with progress in treating brain tumors, current medicines have their limits. These treatments help many patients, but they come with their own set of challenges.

Can Brain Tumors Be Cured by Medicines Alone?

Whether medicines alone can cure brain tumors is a complex question. The answer is generally no. Brain tumors usually need a combination of treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Medicines are important, but their success depends on the tumor type, stage, and the patient’s health.

For some brain tumors, like glioblastoma, treatment involves chemotherapy and radiation. This can help patients live longer, but it’s not a cure for everyone. Brain tumors are different, so one treatment doesn’t work for all.

Understanding Treatment Resistance Mechanisms

One big challenge in treating brain tumors is resistance to treatment. Tumors can resist chemotherapy in many ways, like genetic changes or better DNA repair. Knowing how tumors resist treatment is key to finding better treatments.

Scientists are studying how tumors resist treatment. They’re looking for biomarkers to predict how well a treatment will work. They’re also working on new therapies that can beat resistance.

Realistic Expectations for Patients and Families

It’s important for patients and their families to have realistic hopes about treatment. Medicines can greatly improve life and sometimes extend it. But, they’re not a magic solution.

Knowing the limits of current treatments helps patients and families make better choices. It’s also important for doctors to talk clearly about what to expect and the treatment options.

Conclusion: Advancing the Future of Brain Tumor Drugs

The world of brain tumor treatment is changing fast. New drugs and therapies are giving patients hope. We now have more options like temozolomide, bevacizumab, belzutifan, and abemaciclib.

Research is leading to even better treatments for brain tumors. The future looks bright with new therapies like tumor-treating fields and immunotherapy. We’re also seeing better ways to use glioblastoma chemotherapy drugs.

Improving treatment means using many approaches together. We need to find new drugs and understand how tumors work. By exploring new ways to treat brain tumors, we aim to make these diseases more manageable.

FAQ

References

1. ScienceDirect – Bevacizumab for the treatment of glioblastoma (Batchelor & Kwak, 2021) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213548421000276