Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among Americans, accounting for almost a third of all cancer deaths. [7] There are two major types of lung cancer: non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Small cell lung cancer accounts for only about 15% of all lung cancer, but it is generally more aggressive and fast growing compared to NSCLC. [7]
SCLC is most common in current or past smokers, but can also be caused by environmental risk factors such as exposure to radon and air pollution. SCLC is caused by an uncontrolled growth of cells on the surface of the lung’s breathing tubes (called bronchi). [7]
Your doctor will discuss appropriate treatment options after diagnosis. More tests will be done to find out if cancer cells have spread from one or both lungs to other parts of the body. SCLC is usually found in both lungs. Because of this, surgery is rarely used as a treatment option. [7]
Chemotherapy is the most common treatment for all stages of SCLC. Although SCLC is responsive to first-line treatments, nearly all patients with extensive disease will eventually relapse. [7]
For some people, the news of a recurrence is more disheartening and frightening than the initial diagnosis. But there are still many treatment options to explore. Hycamtin is the only single-agent chemotherapeutic agent approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of SCLC sensitive disease after failure of first-line therapy. Sensitive disease is defined as disease responding to chemotherapy but subsequently worsening at least 60 days after chemotherapy. [1]
This site is intended to answer some of the common questions you may have about Hycamtin, such as how it works, how it is given and for how long, and what side effects may occur. Along with frequently asked questions about the risk factors and treatment of lung cancer, here you’ll learn to take an active role in your treatment. We’ve assembled some useful information to help you better understand your insurance, along with a helpful guide to support groups.
Remember, no one source can answer all your questions or replace the information provided by your doctors and nurses. This Web site is not intended to replace ongoing communication between you and your health care team.
Important Safety Information
Use of Hycamtin
Hycamtin is used for the treatment of small cell lung cancer that returns at least 2 months after completion of your first treatment.
Reasons Not to Use Hycamtin
Do not use if you have had an allergic reaction to Hycamtin, if you are pregnant, if you are breast-feeding, or if you have low blood counts.
Side Effects
Hycamtin can interfere with your body’s ability to make white and red blood cells. Your doctor may prescribe a supportive therapy to help your body make more blood cells.
Side effects often associated with Hycamtin included nausea (64%), vomiting (45%), diarrhea (32%), hair loss (49%), fatigue (29%), and shortness of breath (22%). Most of these side effects were mild to moderate.
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