Doxorubicin

Details of the Drug

Generic Name:: Doxorubicin
Pronunciation:: dok-soh-ROO-bi-sin
Drug Type:: Antitumor antibiotic
How the Drug is Given:: Intravenously (IV)
Names:: Adriamycin®; Doxorubicin

Indications and Usage

Doxorubicin is FDA approved to treat people who have some kinds of blood cancer, including acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloblastic leukemia, and Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Side effects needing medical attention

If doxorubicin accidentally seeps out of the vein, it may damage some tissues and cause scarring. The doctor or nurse should be notified right away if you notice redness, pain or swelling at the IV site; unusually fast or irregular heartbeat; shortness of breath; swelling of feet and lower legs; wheezing; fever; chills; sore throat; sores in mouth and on lips; side or stomach pains; joint pain; unusual bleeding or bruising; rash or itching; loss of hair; nausea and vomiting (if severe); blood in urine or stools; darkening of soles, palms or nails; diarrhea.

Side effects needing medical attention after stopping this medication

Irregular heartbeat; shortness of breath; swelling of feet and lower legs.

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