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Description of Doxorubicin HCl
Doxorubicin is used alone and in combination with other drugs
for treatment of tumors including malignant lymphomas and
leukemias. A new liposomal version of this drug called Doxil
has been recently approvedl as a Kaposiis sarcoma treatment.
Liposomal means that the drug is put inside tiny bules of fat.
These fat bules should take more of the drug to where itís
needed, and reduce side effects.
Managing side effects of Doxorubicin HCl
Notify your doctor promptly if you have fever, sore throat,
signs of infection, bleeding gums, bruising, blood in stools
or urine, and increased fatigue. Avoid crowds and persons with
known infections. Use a soft toothbrush and electric razor and
avoid falls. Do not drink alcoholic beverages or take drugs
containing aspirin because these can cause gastric bleeding.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water after eating and
drinking. Practice contraception during treatment and for at
least 4 months after therapy is concluded. Notify your doctor
immediately if you have irregular heart beat, shortness of
breath, or swelling of legs. Tell your doctor if you get a
skin irritation at the site of previous radiation therapy. Do
not receive any vaccinations without discussing with your
doctor.
Possible side
effects of Doxorubicin HCl
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Hair loss
usually starts 3–4 weeks after the first dose of
doxorubicin, although it may happen earlier. Hair may be
lost completely. You may also have thinning and loss of
eyelashes, eyebrows and other body hair. This is temporary
and the hair will regrow once the treatment ends. To help
reduce hair loss, scalp cooling may be suitable for some
people.
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Nausea (feeling sick) and
vomiting
There are now very effective anti-sickness drugs to prevent
or greatly reduce nausea and vomiting. If it occurs it may
begin a few hours after the treatment is given and last for
up to a day. If the sickness is not controlled, or
continues, tell your doctor, who can prescribe other
anti-sickness drugs that may be more effective.
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Lowered resistance to
infection
Doxorubicin can reduce the production of white blood cells
by the bone marrow, making you more prone to infection. This
effect can begin seven days after treatment has been given
and usually reaches its lowest point 10–14 days after
chemotherapy. Your blood cells will then increase steadily
and will usually have returned to normal before your next
course of chemotherapy is due. Contact your doctor or the
hospital straightaway if: Your temperature goes above 38°C
(100.5°F). You suddenly feel unwell (even with a normal
temperature). You will have a blood test before having more
chemotherapy, to make sure that your cells have recovered.
Occasionally it may be necessary to delay your treatment if
your blood count is still low.
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Bruising or bleeding
Doxorubicin can reduce the production of platelets (which
help the blood to clot). Let your doctor know if you have
any unexplained bruising or bleeding.
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Anaemia (low number of red
blood cells)
While having treatment with doxorubicin you may become
anaemic. This may make you feel tired and breathless.
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Sore mouth and taste change
Your mouth may become sore, or you may notice small ulcers
during this treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids and
cleaning your teeth regularly and gently with a soft
toothbrush can help to reduce the risk of this happening.
Tell your doctor if you do have any of these problems, as
special mouthwashes and medicines to prevent or clear any
mouth infection can be prescribed. You may notice that your
food tastes different. Normal taste will come back after the
treatment finishes.
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Discoloured urine
Your urine may become a pink-red color. This may last up to
24 hours after you have had the doxorubicin, and is due to
the color of the drug. It is quite normal.
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Skin changes
Your skin may darken, due to excess production of pigment.
This usually returns to normal a few months after the
treatment has finished.
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Sensitivity to the sun
While you are having doxorubicin, and for several months
afterwards, you will be more sensitive to the sun, and your
skin may burn more easily. You can still go out in the sun,
but always wear a high protection factor sun cream and
protective clothing.
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Tiredness and a general
feeling of weakness
It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
Disclaimer:
Information on this page is provided for general
information purposes. You should not make a clinical treatment
decision based on information contained in this page without
consulting other references including the package insert of
the drug, textbooks and where relevant, expert opinion. We
cannot be held responsible for any errors you make in
administering drugs mentioned on this page, nor for use of any
erroneous information contained on this page.
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