How does this medicine work?
Doxorubicin (doks-oh-roo-bi-sin) is a chemotherapy medicine that destroys cancer cells in all phases of cell life.
How is the medicine given?
Doxorubicin is given into a vein (IV) in the hospital or clinic.
What are the side effects?
Expected
- low blood cell counts Common
- moderate nausea,
vomiting
- hair loss
- red- or orange-colored urine for up to 48 hours after infusion
Occasional
- mouth sores
- may “reactivate” redness in an area of previous radiation
- darkening of nail beds and skin folds
Rare
- cardiac muscle damage with prolonged use
- secondary cancer
Tissue burn may occur if the medicine leaks from the vein.
It is important to take good care of the mouth to prevent mouth sores.
When should I call the clinic?
Call hematology helpline 982403210 if:
- fever, chills
- cough
- hoarseness
- bleeding, unusual bruising
- mouth sores
- continued vomiting
- continued diarrhea
- skin irritation
- sunburn
- irregular heartbeat
- signs of allergic reaction:
- sudden rash or hives
- itching
- wheezing
- trouble breathing – call 112