What is Doxorubicin?
Doxorubicin can be used to treat cancers of the lungs, bones, nerve tissue, joints, or soft tissues. Doxorubicin can also be used to treat Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, as well as certain forms of leukemia. Doxorubicin can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.
Side effects of Doxorubicin
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergy reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or any swelling to lips, face throat or tongue Some side effects can occur when the injection is given. You should tell your healthcare provider if you experience nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, sweating, a headache, or chest pain.
Doxorubicin may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Pain, blisters, or sores on the skin where the injection has been given
- Missed menstrual periods;
- Easy bruising or bleeding; purple or red spots on your skin, especially in the nose, mouth, or vaginal area;
- Low white blood cells—fever and swollen gingivae, sores on the skin, sores in your mouth, difficulty swallowing or chewing food, flu-like symptoms, coughing, and trouble breathing
- Signs of a heart problem include rapid heartbeats, a feeling of shortness of breath, even with moderate exertion, and swelling of your feet or ankles.
Doxorubicin can cause urine to have a reddish-orange color. This is a common side effect.
Some of the common side effects that doxorubicin can cause include:
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Hair loss.
There may be other side effects.Call your physician if experiencing side effects; otherwise contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 to report them.
Warnings
Do not take doxorubicin if your liver is severely affected by heart disease. If you've recently suffered a heart attack, you should also avoid doxorubicin. Doxorubicin may weaken the immune system. You may have to test your blood frequently. If you notice unusual bleeding or bruising, or if there are signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or body aches, tell your doctor. Doxorubicin can have dangerous effects on the heart. If you are feeling very tired or weak, if your heart is racing, if your breath becomes short, even with light exercise, or if you have swollen ankles or toes, call your doctor immediately.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be used if:
- Low blood counts due to chemotherapy received previously
- Severe liver disease
- Heart problems are severe.
- If you've recently suffered a heart attack,
If you've ever:
- Severe liver disease
- Heart disease, or cardiac failure.
- Radiation treatment for your chest
Inform your doctor of all cancer medications or radiation treatments that you've received. You may be at greater risk of developing leukemia or bone marrow diseases later in your life if you use doxorubicin. Your doctor can tell you more about the risk that applies to your situation. Before starting the treatment, you may be required to take a pregnancy test. Doxorubicin may harm or even cause birth defects in an unborn child if either the father or mother is taking this medication. Continue to use contraception at least six months after the last dose. If you become pregnant while using doxorubicin, either as a mother or father, tell your doctor immediately. Both men and women may be affected by this medicine. It is still important to avoid pregnancy, as doxorubicin may harm the unborn child. Doxorubicin can also lead to early menopause, depending on your age when taking this medication. You should ask your doctor if this is a risk. Do not breastfeed if you use doxorubicin.
How to take Doxorubicin?
Doxorubicin can be infused into the vein. This injection will be given by a healthcare professional. If you experience any pain or swelling when the doxorubicin IV is injected, tell your caretakers. Doxorubicin can be given with other cancer drugs. Other medications may be prescribed to treat nausea, vomiting, or infection. When you accidentally get any medication on your skin, wash the area with warm, soapy water. Doxorubicin may lower the number of blood cells. You will have to test your blood often. The results may delay your cancer treatment.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are unable to keep your appointment, call your doctor and ask for further instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdose is unlikely, since this medication is administered under medical supervision in an operating room setting.
What should be avoided?
Stay away from people with infections or illnesses. If you notice any signs of an infection, tell your doctor immediately. Be careful to avoid activities that may cause injury or bleeding. Take extra precautions to avoid bleeding when shaving or cleaning your teeth.
Interaction with other drug
Many medications can interact with doxorubicin. These include prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medicines. This list does not include all interactions.Notify your doctor of all medications you currently take as well as those you intend to stop or begin using in the near future.
