Medication for Fatigue in Cancer Treatment

Fatigue is exhaustion (emotional, mental and physical) which is not alleviated by resting or sleeping. According to the American Cancer Society, between 70 and 100 percent of cancer patients report experiencing fatigue caused by cancer and/or cancer treatments.

Significance

• Cancer-related fatigue is a source of additional distress to cancer patients and can make it difficult to resume normal activities like going to work or socializing.

Treatment

• According to the National Cancer Institute, treatment is aimed at alleviating the symptoms. There is no specific medication which has been determined to relieve fatigue, but doctors commonly prescribe antidepressants or psycho stimulants (like Ritalin or Provigil).

Methylphenidate Facts

• According to the American Cancer Society, methylphenidate (brand name Ritalin, Methylin or Concerta) has been helpful in aiding cancer patients in the fight against fatigue. Small doses taken during the day is most effective.

Modafinil Facts

• Provigil (modafinil) is a medication used in patients with excessive sleepiness (such as patients with obstructive sleep apnea or narcolepsy). It is also helpful in treating cancer-related fatigue.

Side Effects

• While the American Cancer Society contends that side effects with methylphenidate are minor, the National Cancer Institute states that some psychostimulant medications may result in mood changes or insomnia. At high doses and on a long-term basis, psychostimulants may cause paranoia, heart problems, nightmares, diminished appetite and insomnia.

Additional Treatment Options

• Additional fatigue treatments may include adjusting your pain medication dosage, supplementing your diet with vitamins and iron or giving a transfusion of red blood cells.