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Doxorubicin Injection (DOXORUBICIN – INJECTION)

Doxorubicin Injection (DOXORUBICIN - INJECTION)

For treating cancer.

Brand Name(s): Adriamycin

Generic Name: Doxorubicin

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Your doctor may prescribe other medications to reduce side effects. Follow instructions carefully.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

May cause mouth sores. Brush teeth gently. Avoid products containing alcohol. Rinse mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or salt.

Some patients with weak hearts may have worsening of symptoms. If you notice difficulty breathing, weight gain, or swelling of your legs or ankles, let your doctor know right away.

This medicine is associated with an increased risk of serious heart problems and heart attack. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain or difficulty breathing.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 10 days after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a pregnant partner must wear a condom during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 10 days after stopping to prevent harm to the developing baby.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use a condom and a second form of birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

If you have had a heart attack or a stroke within the past 6 months, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • diarrhea
  • changes in the color of the urine or stool
  • hair loss
  • nausea and vomiting
  • redness of eyes
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain
  • red coloring of urine, tears or sweat
  • weight loss

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • back pain
  • wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • chest pain
  • cough that does not go away
  • severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
  • swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • fainting
  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • fever or chills
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • unusual or long-lasting hoarseness
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • pain in the joints
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • menstruation changes (missed or fewer periods)
  • eye pain or swelling
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • red, peeling or blistering skin
  • bloody or dark, tarry stools
  • persistent or unusual thirst
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • urinating less often
  • severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.