Temozolomide
Temozolomide is an alkylating chemotherapy agent used primarily to treat certain brain tumors, including glioblastoma multiforme and anaplastic astrocytoma, as well as melanoma. It is a prodrug that converts to its active form in the body and works by damaging cancer cell DNA, preventing replication and causing cell death.
Temozolomide is a chemotherapy drug that treats brain tumors and melanoma by alkylating cancer cell DNA.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L01AX03
- RxNorm
- 37776
- Generic
- Temozolomide
- Class
- atc-l01
- Brands
- Temodar
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- injection, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Temozolomide is primarily used to treat newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (in combination with radiation therapy) and refractory anaplastic astrocytoma. It is also used for metastatic melanoma.
Temozolomide is a prodrug that undergoes rapid non-enzymatic conversion at physiologic pH to the active compound MTIC. MTIC causes methylation of DNA (alkylation), which damages the DNA strand and prevents cancer cells from replicating, ultimately leading to cell death.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and myelosuppression (low blood counts). Regular blood monitoring is required during treatment. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and requires appropriate contraception. Dose adjustments may be needed for patients with liver impairment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy