Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with only a 9% five-year survival rate. It is difficult to diagnose and often spreads quickly before it is even detected.

While there are several treatment options for pancreatic cancer patients like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery and immunotherapy, many of these treatments come with a steep price tag, which may not be feasible for all patients to afford. Therefore this article will examine some of the effective low-cost medications that can be used to treat pancreatic cancer.

Metformin

This medication has been studied for both its potential to prevent pancreatic cancer and its ability to treat it.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, pancreatic cancer patients who took metformin had significantly longer survival rates than patients who did not take it. Besides, metformin users are less likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and even better, it is cheap and readily available.

Aspirin and other Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Aspirin and other NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen have been seen to reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer by up to 50% in some studies. However, the use of these drugs over the long term can have adverse effects, such as stomach ulcers and bleeding.

It’s important to consult with a physician before taking NSAIDs as a preventative medication.

Vitamins

Patients with pancreatic cancer usually suffer from malnutrition due to changes in metabolism in their body. Therefore, vitamin supplements can be helpful in preventing nutrient deficiencies during treatment.

Vitamin D supplements, in particular, have been linked to better survival rates among pancreatic cancer patients. Vitamins, however, are not a complete treatment solution, and patients should consult with a doctor before taking any supplements.

Cimetidine (Tagamet)

Cimetidine is an antiulcer drug that has been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the body’s production of T cells that fight cancer cells.

One study showed that when cimetidine was used with chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer patients, the survival rate increased significantly. It is important to note that cimetidine can interfere with the effectiveness of other drugs, and therefore, it is crucial to consult with a doctor before taking this medication.

Gemcitabine

Gemcitabine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat pancreatic cancer. It is one of the cheapest chemotherapy drugs available that has been shown to improve survival rates. It is usually given intravenously once a week.

Patients should always consult their doctors and pharmacists to ensure they are taking the proper dosage and frequency for their unique case.

Conclusion

There are low-cost medication options available for pancreatic cancer patients. Patients experiencing financial challenges when treating pancreatic cancer should speak with their medical care team to explore options that may be available.

It is always important that patients consult their physicians before taking any medication to avoid undesired side effects or interactions with other treatments. Finally, a support system with family and friends is essential to help manage stress and all the challenges that come with a pancreatic cancer diagnosis.