Gliogrey 250mg Capsule

1. Product Introduction

Gliogrey 250mg Capsule is an oral chemotherapy medication that contains Temozolomide as its active ingredient. It belongs to a class of drugs known as alkylating agents, which work by damaging the DNA of cancer cells and preventing their growth and multiplication. Gliogrey is widely used in the treatment of specific types of brain tumors and is known for its effectiveness, especially in high-grade malignancies.

Temozolomide, the core component of Gliogrey, is a prodrug, meaning it becomes active only after entering the bloodstream. It is known for crossing the blood-brain barrier, making it particularly suitable for treating brain tumors — a feat not many chemotherapy drugs can achieve efficiently.

Gliogrey 250mg is typically prescribed by oncologists and used under strict medical supervision. The dosage, treatment duration, and combination with other therapies (like radiotherapy) are determined based on the patient’s condition, cancer stage, and treatment response.

2. Uses of This Medicine

Gliogrey 250mg Capsule (Temozolomide) is mainly used in the treatment of:

• Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM): An aggressive type of brain tumor. It is often used alongside radiotherapy as part of the initial treatment, and later as maintenance therapy.

• Anaplastic Astrocytoma: A rare but malignant type of brain cancer. Gliogrey helps slow down the progression and relieve symptoms.

• Recurrent Brain Tumors: In cases where tumors return after initial treatment, Temozolomide is often used as a salvage therapy.

• Other off-label uses: It may sometimes be used in clinical settings for treating metastatic melanoma or other tumors upon medical advice.

3. Benefits of This Medicine

Gliogrey 250mg Capsule offers several critical benefits for patients battling brain cancer:

• Effective in Treating Aggressive Tumors: Gliogrey is particularly potent against glioblastoma and anaplastic astrocytoma — two forms of rapidly growing brain tumors.

• Crosses the Blood-Brain Barrier: Unlike many other chemotherapy agents, Temozolomide effectively penetrates the brain’s protective barrier, ensuring targeted action at the tumor site.

• Oral Administration: Being a capsule, it eliminates the need for hospital visits for IV chemotherapy, improving convenience and comfort for the patient.

• Enhances Radiotherapy Outcomes: When used along with radiotherapy, Gliogrey significantly boosts the chances of tumor shrinkage and improves survival rates.

• Delays Tumor Progression: It helps in prolonging the time before tumor regrowth, giving patients a better quality of life and increased time for further treatment planning.

• Tolerable Side Effect Profile: Compared to other chemotherapy drugs, Temozolomide is often better tolerated, especially when prescribed with proper monitoring and support medications.

4. Side Effects

Like all chemotherapy medicines, Gliogrey 250mg may cause some side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Many side effects are manageable with supportive care and dose adjustment.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Headache

• Fatigue or tiredness

• Insomnia or sleep disturbances

Serious Side Effects:

• Decreased blood cell counts (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)

• Increased risk of infections

• Fever or flu-like symptoms

• Shortness of breath or chest pain (rare)

• Liver enzyme changes

Precautions:

• Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor white blood cell and platelet counts.

• Avoid live vaccines and crowded places due to reduced immunity during treatment.

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like persistent fever, unusual bruising or bleeding, or signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What is Gliogrey 250mg Capsule used for?
A: Gliogrey is primarily used to treat brain tumors like glioblastoma multiforme and anaplastic astrocytoma, either as initial therapy or when the tumor returns.

Q2. How should I take Gliogrey 250mg Capsule?
A: Take the capsule orally, once daily as directed by your oncologist, usually on an empty stomach. It is vital to take it at the same time every day and complete the full course of treatment.

Q3. Can Gliogrey be taken at home?
A: Yes, it is an oral medication and can be taken at home, but under the guidance and supervision of a doctor. Regular checkups and blood tests are necessary during the course.

Q4. What precautions should I take while using Gliogrey?
A: Maintain good hygiene, avoid contact with sick people, and follow your doctor’s dietary or medication guidelines. Also, use effective contraception, as Temozolomide can harm an unborn baby.

Q5. Can I take other medicines with Gliogrey?
A: Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you’re taking. Some drugs may interact with Temozolomide and affect how it works.