3.1
Temozolomide (Temodal) is an alkylating agent derived from dacarbazine and first synthesised in 1984. It is indicated for the treatment of patients with malignant glioma showing recurrence or progression after standard therapy. It is easier to administer than other chemotherapeutic regimes for this indication and is given orally once a day for 5 days in a 28‑day cycle. It has high bioavailability and crosses the blood‑brain barrier where it is spontaneously hydrolysed to its active form. It is toxic to cancer cells due to inhibition of tumour cell DNA replication.