Hycamtin
Hycamtin is in a class of drugs known as topoisomerase inhibitors; it
slows or stops the growth of cancer cells. The length of treatment depends on the types of
drugs you are taking, how well your body responds to them, and the type of cancer you
have.
Hycamtin is used to treat
Side effects of Hycamtin
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 you develop any unexplained
bruising or bleeding, or you suddenly feel unwell, even with a normal temperature, contact
your doctor or the hospital straight away.
Feeling sick (nausea) or being sick. This is usually mild and 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
last for up to a day. If the sickness is not controlled, or continues, tell your doctor.
They can prescribe other anti-sickness drugs, which may be more effective.
Loss of appetite. This is also usually mild and may last a day or so.
Hair loss. This usually starts 3-4 weeks after the first dose of
Hycamtin. Hair may be lost completely or may just thin. You may also have thinning and
loss of eyelashes, eyebrows and other body hair. This is temporary and your hair will
regrow once the treatment is finished.
Tiredness and a general feeling of weakness. It is important to allow
yourself plenty of time to rest.
Less common side effects of Hycamtin
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.
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. |