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Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors in Adults

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Treating Brain/CNS Tumors In Adults TOPICS

Other drug treatments for brain and spinal cord tumors

Some drugs commonly used in people with brain tumors do not treat the tumors directly, but they may help to lessen symptoms from the tumor or its treatment.

Corticosteroids

Cortisone-like drugs such as dexamethasone (Decadron) are often given to reduce swelling around brain tumors. This may help relieve headaches and other symptoms.

Anti-seizure drugs (anti-epileptics)

Drugs may also be prescribed to lower the chance of seizures, which may happen in people with brain tumors. Different anti-seizure drugs may be used depending on a patient's circumstances. Because these drugs can often interfere with other drugs, such as chemotherapy, they are not usually given unless the tumor has caused seizures.


Last Medical Review: 05/09/2011
Last Revised: 01/05/2012

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