Other Drugs Used to Treat Thymus Tumors

Some drugs that are not standard chemotherapy drugs might also be used to treat thymus tumors. These are usually tried after chemotherapy has been used first.

Octreotide for thymus tumors

Octreotide (Sandostatin) is a lab-made version of a natural hormone called somatostatin. It can be given with a steroid medicine called prednisone. When octreotide binds to somatostatin receptors on cancer cells, it may help slow tumor growth.

Before treatment with this drug, doctors order a PET/CT scan to see if the tumor has octreotide or dotatate receptors. The imaging test shows the receptors and helps doctors predict whether the drug is likely to work.

Who is treated with octreotide?

Octreotide is typically considered for people with advanced or recurrent thymoma that hasn't responded to other treatments. Or it can be an option for people who aren't healthy enough for standard chemotherapy. It's used more often and tends to work better in thymoma than in thymic carcinoma. This is because thymic carcinoma cells are less likely to have somatostatin receptors.

How is octreotide given?

One version of octreotide is short-acting and is injected 2 to 4 times a day under the skin. There is also a long-acting form of the drug that only needs to be injected into a muscle every 4 weeks. This drug is called Sandostatin LAR Depot. Treatment is usually continued for as long as it helps control the cancer.

What are side effects of octreotide for thymus tumors?

Octreotide tends to cause fewer side effects than standard chemotherapy. However, side effects of this treatment can include:

• Nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramping
• Gallstones with long-term use
• Changes in blood sugar levels (it can raise or lower blood sugar)
• Pain or irritation at the injection site

Because octreotide is often combined with prednisone, side effects from the steroid can also occur, such as:

• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Trouble sleeping
• Mood changes
• Increased blood sugar
• Higher risk of infection with long-term use

Most side effects are mild compared to those from standard chemotherapy. Tell your healthcare team about any side effects that you notice so they can help manage them.