From the FDA Drug Label
In clinical trials, temozolomide capsules were administered under both fasting and nonfasting conditions; however, absorption is affected by food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12. 3)], and consistency of administration with respect to food is recommended. There are no dietary restrictions with temozolomide capsules. To reduce nausea and vomiting, temozolomide capsules should be taken on an empty stomach. Temozolomide should be taken before food, specifically on an empty stomach, to reduce nausea and vomiting 1.
From the Research
Temozolomide should be taken on an empty stomach, about one hour before a meal or two hours after eating, to ensure optimal absorption and minimize side effects. This recommendation is based on the fact that food can affect the absorption of temozolomide, and taking it consistently with or without food is crucial to maintain steady drug levels in the body 2. The timing of doses should remain consistent throughout the treatment cycle, which typically involves taking temozolomide once daily for several days as part of a treatment protocol for certain brain tumors or other cancers.
Some key points to consider when taking temozolomide include:
- Taking it with a light meal may help reduce nausea and vomiting, which are common side effects, but this should be discussed with a healthcare provider first 3.
- The medication's efficacy and safety can be improved with the use of drug delivery nanosystems, which can provide controlled and targeted delivery 2.
- Temozolomide's resistance mechanisms are complex and involve multiple factors, including DNA repair processes, abnormal cell signaling pathways, and the tumor microenvironment 4, 5.
- Despite the lack of specific guidance on taking temozolomide with or without food in the provided studies, the general principle of maintaining consistent drug levels and minimizing side effects supports the recommendation to take it on an empty stomach or with a light meal.
It is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by a doctor or pharmacist, as dosing schedules may vary based on the individual treatment protocol. Additionally, temozolomide's use has expanded beyond glioblastoma to benefit patients with non-glioblastoma tumors, and its administration in combination with other agents is being explored 3, 6.