Eloxatin
Eloxatin belongs to the group of medicines called antineoplastics.
Eloxatin is most commonly used to treat cancer of the large bowel (colon
or rectum)
Side effects of Eloxatin
Numbness or tingling in hands or feet. Eloxatincan have an effect on
the nerve endings, whichis known as peripheral neuropathy. This may result in feelings of
numbness or tingling, especially in the hands, feet, neck or throat. For some people,
these symptoms can be related to anything cold, such as iced drinks and cold air. If you
notice that your symptoms are related to the cold you should avoid cold drinks and wrap up
warmly in the cold weather. It is important to report your symptoms to your doctor as
these symptoms may be controlled by slightly lowering the dose of the drug.
Sometimes the tingling or numbness may not happen with the first treatment, but after
several treatments. This is known as a `cumulative effect' and should improve after
treatment has finished.
Temporary reduction in the production of blood cells by the bone marrow.
This can result in anaemia, risk of bruising or bleeding, and an increased risk of
infection. The number of blood cells in your blood may begin to reduce from about seven
days after the treatment has been given and usually reaches its lowest point at 10-14 days
after the chemotherapy. Your blood cells will then increase steadily and will usually
return to normal within 21-28 days. Your blood will be checked regularly to see how well
your bone marrow is working.
If your temperature goes above 38°C (100.5°F) or if you develop any unexplained
bruising or bleeding, or suddenly feel unwell, even with a normal temperature, contact
your doctor or the hospital straight away.
Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting. There are now very effective
anti-sickness drugs to prevent or greatly reduce nausea and vomiting. If you do feel sick
it may begin a few hours after the treatment is given and may last for a few days. If the
sickness is not controlled, or continues, tell your doctor. They can prescribe other
anti-sickness drugs that may be more effective.
Diarrhoea. This can usually be easily controlled with medicine but
tell your doctor if it is severe or continues. It is important to drink plenty of fluids
if you do have diarrhoea.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness. It is important to allow
yourself plenty of time to rest.
Less common side effects of Eloxatin
Laryngeal spasm. The area around the larynx (voice box) can be
temporarily affected by Eloxatin, resulting in a sensation of difficulty in swallowing and
severe breathing problems. (This symptom may be cold related. It is therefore advisable to
avoid cold drinks etc) It is important to let the doctor know if you have this side
effect.
Allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include skin rashes
and itching, a high temperature, shivering, redness of the face, dizziness, headache,
breathlessness and anxiety. You will be monitored for any signs of an allergic reaction
during the treatment. Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any of these signs.
Sore mouth and taste change. Your mouth may become sore, or you may
notice small ulcers during this treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids and cleaning your
teeth regularly and gently with a soft toothbrush can help to reduce the risk of this
happening. Tell your doctor if you do have any of these problems as they can prescribe
special mouthwashes and medicine to prevent or clear any mouth infection.
You may notice that your food tastes different. Normal taste will come back after the
treatment finishes. |