The pancreas, a gland that produces digestive enzymes and generates hormones that regulate blood sugar, plays a critical role in bodily function. As a result, pancreatic cancer can have a devastating impact on one’s health and wellness. Along with surgical procedures, doctors can use medication to manage this form of cancer and prevent it from spreading.
After diagnosing pancreatic cancer and determining its scope and severity, doctors may recommend the following medications:
In some cases, medical practitioners will recommend multiple cancer treatments. For instance, a person may receive chemotherapy to shrink the cancer before surgery is performed.
While the prognosis can depend on factors like severity, the stage when the cancer is diagnosed, and the person’s current state of health, five-year survival rates for pancreatic cancer typically range from 1% to 12%. With advanced forms of the disease, doctors may recommend palliative care in lieu of the above cancer treatments.
Palliative care is not focused on curing the condition, but reducing pain and improving the quality of life of the person affected. In this case, a person may receive strong prescription medications to manage pain. Other medicines may be administered to improve appetite or provide relief from emotional distress brought on by the condition.