What Is Temodar? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Temodar (temozolomide) is an oral chemotherapy drug that has been the cornerstone of glioblastoma treatment for more than two decades. First approved by the FDA in August 1999, it remains one of the most important medicines in neuro-oncology. If you or a loved one has been prescribed Temodar, here is what you need to understand about what it is, what it treats, and how it is used.

What Is Temodar?

Temodar is the brand name for temozolomide, an oral alkylating chemotherapy agent made by Merck. It belongs to a class of drugs that work by adding chemical groups (alkyl groups) to cancer cells' DNA, which causes the DNA to break down and the cancer cell to die. It is available as an oral capsule in six strengths (5 mg, 20 mg, 100 mg, 140 mg, 180 mg, and 250 mg) and as a 100 mg intravenous injection for patients who cannot swallow.

Generic temozolomide is available from multiple manufacturers (Teva, Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy's, Amneal) and is therapeutically equivalent to brand Temodar at a lower cost.

What Is Temodar Used to Treat?

The FDA has approved Temodar for the following indications in adult patients:

Newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM): Used concurrently with focal radiotherapy (75 mg/m2 daily for 42–49 days) and then as maintenance therapy (150–200 mg/m2 on days 1–5 of each 28-day cycle for up to 6 cycles). This is known as the Stupp protocol, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2005.

Newly diagnosed anaplastic astrocytoma (adjuvant): Following radiotherapy, temozolomide is given as adjuvant therapy for 12 cycles (150 mg/m2 cycle 1, then 200 mg/m2 cycles 2–12).

Refractory anaplastic astrocytoma: For anaplastic astrocytoma that has not responded to or has progressed after prior therapy (150 mg/m2 on days 1–5 of each 28-day cycle).

Temodar is also used off-label for several other brain tumor types, including anaplastic oligodendroglioma, primary CNS lymphoma, and some pediatric brain tumors, though these uses are not FDA-approved.

How Is Temodar Dosed?

Unlike many medications with a fixed dose, temozolomide is dosed based on your body surface area (BSA) — a calculation using your height and weight. This is why the dose varies from patient to patient. Your oncologist will calculate your exact dose and prescribe the appropriate combination of capsule strengths.

Concurrent phase (with radiation): 75 mg/m2 once daily, every day for 6–7 weeks

Maintenance Cycle 1: 150 mg/m2 once daily on days 1–5 of a 28-day cycle

Maintenance Cycles 2–6: 150–200 mg/m2 on days 1–5 of each 28-day cycle (dose escalated if tolerated)

How to Take Temodar Correctly

Swallow capsules whole with a full glass of water — never open, chew, or crush them

Take at the same time each day — many patients take it at bedtime on an empty stomach to reduce nausea

If a capsule is opened accidentally, avoid contact with skin, eyes, or nose — the powder is a hazardous chemotherapy agent

Store at room temperature (68–77°F / 20–25°C) in a dry place away from children

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Is Temodar a Controlled Substance?

No. Temodar (temozolomide) is not a DEA-controlled substance. It is a prescription chemotherapy medication that requires a prescription from a licensed prescriber, but it does not have the scheduling restrictions that apply to opioids or stimulants. However, it can only be prescribed and managed by a qualified oncology provider due to its complexity and serious side effect profile.

Key Warnings and Precautions

Myelosuppression: can cause dangerously low blood counts — regular CBC monitoring is required

Hepatotoxicity: liver function tests required periodically

Pregnancy: Temodar can cause serious fetal harm — use effective contraception for 6 months after last dose

Contraindicated in patients with prior hypersensitivity to temozolomide or dacarbazine (DTIC)

If you've been prescribed Temodar and are having trouble filling it, medfinder can contact pharmacies near you to find one that can fill your specific prescription quickly.

Also read: How Does Temodar Work? Mechanism of Action Explained in Plain English