Thalidomide

I was wondering if you know of any success with the drug Thalidomide. I have stage 4 ovarian carcinosarcoma with mets to the lungs, liver and pelvis. At this point I am seeking a drug that will help prolong my life and hopefully stabilize my tumors. Any info would be appreciated. Also, can I take Gemzar/Cisplatin at the same time as the Thalidomide?

Thank you

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi there,

thalidomide was evaluated over the last 10 years when information about the use of antiangiogenesis drugs in the treatment of cancer came out.

Thalidomide is fairly toxic. there was a study in 2005 that suggested that thalidomide with topotecan is superior to topotecan. Interestingly research on thalidomide has petered out. I think because of its toxicity and also newer agents such as avastin have supplanted thalidomide in antiangiogenesis cancer treatment.

I do not know if thalidomide can be taken with gemzar/cisplatin

two avastin combinations have had response in ovarain cancer:
taxol and avastin
cytoxan and avastin

You should ask your doctor about these possibilities
best wishes