Temporary Stoppages and Burden of Treatment in Patients With Cancer

Objectives: To examine the effect of burden of treatment and multimorbidity on the relationship between baseline characteristics and oral oncolytic agent (OOA) temporary stoppages.

Sample & Setting: 272 patients newly prescribed OOAs at six National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer centers.

Methods & Variables: Patients were randomly assigned to an adherence and symptom management group or a usual care/control group. Temporary OOA stoppages, symptom interference, OOA regimen complexity, and multimorbidities were explored. Data were collected at four-week intervals for 12 weeks.

Results: Burden of treatment variables and multimorbidity had no significant effect on OOA temporary stoppages. Women and those prescribed kinase inhibitors were significantly more likely to experience a temporary stoppage.

Implications for Nursing: Oncology nurses are in a crucial position to educate patients on self-management of OOAs and symptoms. Nurses should be aware of patients who may be more susceptible to severe symptoms, including those with multimorbidities. Future research is needed to better understand OOA stoppages and factors associated with preventing stoppages.