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Cancer and Thiotepa
Adults who have certain types of cancer may receive thiotepa (Thioplex®). It is approved to treat a number of different types of cancer, including but not limited to:
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer (cancer of the ovaries)
- Superficial bladder cancer (cancer that is confined to the lining of the bladder)
- Hodgkin's disease (also known as Hodgkin's lymphoma).
It comes in the form of an injection that is given intravenously (by IV) every one to four weeks. The drug can also be given directly into the body cavities, such as the heart, lungs, or abdomen (stomach).
There are also some unapproved, or "off-label," uses for thiotepa, such as treating:
- Leukemia
- Certain cancers in children
- Brain tumors.
Thiotepa works by interfering with cell division, which helps prevent cancer cells from growing and multiplying.
(Click What Is Thiotepa Used For? for more in-depth information on using this drug for cancer treatment. This article also offers detailed information on how it works and whether it is prescribed for children.)
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD