What medicine to take after rectal cancer surgery: comprehensive analysis of postoperative medication regimen
Postoperative medication for rectal cancer is a key link in the recovery process of patients. Reasonable drug treatment can effectively reduce the risk of recurrence, relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life. This article will combine the popular discussions and medical guidelines on the Internet in the past 10 days to provide you with a detailed analysis of medication selection and precautions after rectal cancer surgery.
1. Classification of commonly used drugs after rectal cancer surgery
According to the purpose of treatment, postoperative drugs for rectal cancer can be divided into the following categories:
| drug type | Representative medicine | function |
|---|---|---|
| chemotherapy drugs | Oxaliplatin, capecitabine, 5-fluorouracil | Kill remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence |
| Targeted drugs | Cetuximab, bevacizumab | Target specific gene mutations to precisely inhibit tumor growth |
| immunotherapy drugs | Pembrolizumab, nivolumab | Activate the immune system to fight cancer cells |
| auxiliary medicine | Antiemetics, painkillers, probiotics | Alleviate postoperative side effects and improve quality of life |
2. Selection and treatment duration of chemotherapy drugs
Chemotherapy is one of the core treatments after rectal cancer surgery. The specific plan needs to be determined according to the patient’s stage and physical condition:
| installment | Recommended plan | Treatment cycle |
|---|---|---|
| Phase II (high risk) | Capecitabine alone or FOLFOX regimen | 6 months |
| Phase III | FOLFOX or CAPEOX regimen | 6 months |
| Stage IV (metastatic) | Individualized combination chemotherapy + targeted therapy | Adjust according to efficacy |
3. Applicable conditions for targeted and immunotherapy
Targeted and immunotherapies require genetic testing to screen suitable groups:
| Detection indicators | Applicable drugs | efficient |
|---|---|---|
| RAS wild type | cetuximab | 50%-60% |
| Microsatellite instability (MSI-H) | PD-1 inhibitors | 40%-50% |
4. Rational use of auxiliary drugs
Common postoperative symptoms and corresponding medications:
| Symptoms | Recommended medicine | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea and vomiting | ondansetron, granisetron | Prophylactic use before chemotherapy |
| Diarrhea | Loperamide, montmorillonite powder | Avoid dehydration and replenish electrolytes |
| Intestinal flora imbalance | Bifidobacteria, Clostridium butyricum | Take 2 hours apart from antibiotics |
5. Hot issues of concern to patients
1.Can Chinese medicine replace chemotherapy?There is currently no evidence that traditional Chinese medicine can replace standard chemotherapy, and it is recommended as an auxiliary method.
2.How to deal with drug side effects?Communicate with your doctor promptly to adjust the dose and cooperate with symptomatic and supportive treatment.
3.How long do I need to continue taking medication after surgery?Chemotherapy usually lasts for 6 months, and targeted/immunotherapy may require long-term maintenance.
6. Summary
Postoperative medication for rectal cancer needs to follow the principle of individualization, and the plan should be formulated based on pathological staging, genetic testing and physical condition. Regular review and medication adjustment are the keys to improving efficacy. Patients should strictly follow the doctor's instructions and pay attention to adverse drug reactions.
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