Temozolomide (TMZ)

What it is

Temozolomide (often abbreviated TMZ) is the most commonly used chemotherapy drug for gliomas. It is taken by mouth as a pill, can cross the blood-brain barrier to reach the tumor, and is central to the treatment of glioblastoma and used in other gliomas.

Understanding Temozolomide (TMZ)

Temozolomide works by damaging the DNA of tumor cells, leading to their death. Its advantages include being an oral pill (convenient compared with intravenous drugs), its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier to reach brain tumors, and a generally manageable side-effect profile. For glioblastoma, temozolomide is given together with radiation (during the Stupp protocol) and then continued for additional cycles afterward. Its effectiveness is influenced by the tumor's MGMT status: tumors with MGMT promoter methylation tend to respond better, since they are less able to repair the DNA damage temozolomide causes. Temozolomide is also used in some other gliomas. Common considerations include effects on blood counts and nausea, which are monitored and managed. Temozolomide has been a mainstay of glioma chemotherapy. Understanding temozolomide in gliomas clarifies the central chemotherapy drug for these tumors.

Why it matters

Understanding temozolomide helps patients and families know the main glioma chemotherapy drug — an oral pill central to glioblastoma treatment, with effectiveness influenced by the tumor's MGMT status.