Optimizing Patient Outcomes: A Comprehensive Review of Oral Medication Management in Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy

Abstract

Radiation therapy (RT) is a cornerstone of modern oncological treatment, employed in over 50% of cancer cases. While highly effective, it is invariably associated with a range of acute and chronic side effects that significantly impact patient quality of life (QoL) and treatment tolerance. The management of these toxicities relies heavily on pharmacological interventions, with oral medications (tablets, capsules) being the most frequently administered route due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the common classes of oral medications utilized during radiotherapy, their indications, mechanisms of action, and the critical importance of managing their side effects and potential interactions. We discuss protocols for managing dermatologic, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and pain-related toxicities. Furthermore, we emphasize the challenges of polypharmacy, patient compliance, and the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach involving radiation oncologists, pharmacists, and nurses to optimize therapeutic outcomes. The data synthesized herein underscores that effective oral medication management is not merely supportive but integral to the successful completion of radical radiotherapy regimens.