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Doxorubicin

By Lisa Fayed, About.com

Updated: April 25, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Name:
Doxorubicin
Trade Name:
Adriamycin, Rubex
Drug Type:
Anti-cancer drug, referred as cytotoxic, or antineoplastic
Classification:
anthracycline antiobiotic
Uses:
bladder, breast, head and neck, liver, lung, ovary, pancreas, prostate, stomach, uterine cancer, leukemia (some types), lymphomas, mesothelioma, multiple myeloma, neuroblastoma, sarcomas, testis (germ cell), thyroid,
How It Is Given:
IV (intravenously)
Common Side Effects:
Pain along the site where the medication was given, vomiting, nausea, hair loss, mouth sores
Less Common Side Effects:
changes in color of urine, watering eyes, darkening of nail beds, fertility problems
Side Effects That Require Medical Attention:
Fever of 100.5º F, chills, blistering at IV site, shortness of breath, closing of the throat, facial swelling, hives, unusual bleeding or bruising, black or tarry stools, mouth sores, swelling in feet or hands, fast heartbeat, extreme fatigue
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