Medications for Brain Tumors
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed. Prescription Medicines
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in higher doses:
Over the Counter Pain Relievers
Prescription MedicinesCorticosteroids
This medicine is used for a short time to ease swelling in the brain. This will help with head pain. Problems may be:
Anti-seizure Medicines
These medicines are given to control seizures. Some problems from levetiracetam may be:
Some problems from lacosamide may be:
Some problems from brivaracetam may be:
Some problems from clobazam may be:
Some problems from carbamazepine may be:
Some problems from valproic acid may be:
Some problems from phenytoin are:
Pain RelieversNSAIDs in higher doses, such as:
NSAIDs are used to control pain and swelling. Some problems may be:
Opioids
There is no substitute for opioids to treat severe pain. But, these drugs are addicting and the risk for opioid use disorder is high. These medicines are mainly used for a short time after surgery. Possible side effects:
Over-the-counter Pain Relievers
Possible side effects:
Acetaminophen is the common pain reliever used for mild to mid-level pain. Allergic reactions that damage blood cells or rashes can happen. Liver damage can happen if you take too much. References:About brain tumors. American Brain Tumor Association website. Available at:
https://www.abta.org/about-brain-tumors. Updated July 14, 2021.
Astrocytoma and oligodentroglioma in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/astrocytoma-and-oligodendroglioma-in-adults. Accessed July 13, 2021.
Meningioma. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/meningioma. Accessed July 13, 2021.
Other drug treatments for adult brain and spinal cord tumors. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/brain-spinal-cord-tumors-adults/treating/other-drug-treatments.html. Accessed July 14, 2021. Overview of intracranial tumors. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/neurologic-disorders/intracranial-and-spinal-tumors/overview-of-intracranial-tumors. Accessed July 14, 2021. Last reviewed July 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Rimas Lukas, MD Last Updated: 7/14/2021 |
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