Common questions about GBM and our approach
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive primary brain tumor in adults. It arises from glial cells (support cells in the brain) and is classified as grade 4 — the highest grade. It's characterized by rapid growth, infiltration into surrounding brain tissue, and high rates of recurrence.
Median survival: 15-18 months with standard treatment
2-year survival: ~25-30%
5-year survival: ~5-10%
However, individual outcomes vary significantly based on age, tumor location, molecular markers (MGMT, IDH), extent of surgery, and treatment approach.
IDH-mutant: Has a mutation in the IDH gene. Better prognosis (median survival 31+ months). As of 2021, these are no longer called "GBM" — they're "Astrocytoma, IDH-mutant, Grade 4."
IDH-wildtype: No IDH mutation. This is true GBM. Worse prognosis (median 14-16 months). ~90% of GBM cases are IDH-wildtype.
MGMT is a DNA repair enzyme. If the MGMT gene is methylated (silenced), the tumor can't repair damage from temozolomide chemotherapy — so TMZ works better.
MGMT methylated: Better TMZ response, median survival 21-23 months
MGMT unmethylated: Poor TMZ response, median survival 12-15 months
If unmethylated, alternative approaches (clinical trials, TTFields, metabolic therapy) become more important.
The Stupp Protocol (since 2005):
TTFields (Optune) is increasingly added to this protocol.
Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) is a wearable device that delivers alternating electric fields to the brain, disrupting cancer cell division. Brand name is Optune.
Must be worn 18+ hours/day. Adds approximately 5 months to median survival. FDA approved for both newly diagnosed and recurrent GBM.
GBM is infiltrative — cells spread into surrounding healthy brain tissue beyond what's visible on MRI. Surgery can never remove all cancer cells. These remaining cells eventually regrow.
Additionally, GBM is heterogeneous (different cells respond differently to treatment), and cancer stem cells are often treatment-resistant.
No — not proven. We're very clear about this.
These compounds have varying levels of evidence:
They are complementary — additions to standard treatment, NOT replacements.
YES, absolutely. Always discuss any supplements with your oncologist. Some can interact with medications or affect treatment. Bring the studies, show the evidence, and have an open conversation.
NO. This would be dangerous. Standard treatment (surgery, radiation, TMZ) is the only proven approach to extend survival. Natural compounds may help alongside treatment, but they are not substitutes.
Even long-term survivors like Ben Williams used standard treatment PLUS additions.
This site was created by Arnaud, who lost his wife to GBM at age 38. Despite trying everything — standard treatment, mebendazole, ivermectin, and more — she didn't survive.
His mission is to compile research that might help others navigate this disease.
Best resources:
YES. For a GBM diagnosis, a second opinion from a specialized neuro-oncology center is highly recommended. Top centers see hundreds of GBM patients and may offer different perspectives or access to trials.
Many offer remote consultations. You have the right to a second opinion, and good doctors expect it.
It can be challenging, especially during chemo when appetite is affected. However:
See our Nutrition Guide for practical tips.
See our Protocol page for specific product recommendations. Common sources:
This is one of the hardest aspects. Some thoughts:
See our full Caregiver Guide. Key points: