Ifex
Ifex is in a class of drugs known as alkylating agents; it slows or stops the growth of
cancer cells in your body. 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.
Ifex is used to treat
- germ cell testicular cancer
- bone and soft tissue sarcomas
- lung cancer
- cervical cancer
- ovarian cancer
Side effects of Ifex
Temporary reduction in the production of blood cells by the bone marrow.
This can result in anaemia, risk of bruising or bleeding and 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.
The number of blood cells will then increase steadily and will usually return to normal
within 21-28 days.
The extent to which the number of your blood cells is reduced depends on the dose of
Ifex you receive and which other chemotherapy drugs, if any, are given in combination.
Your doctor can advise you how likely it is that your blood cells will be lowered by the
chemotherapy. 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.
Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting. There are now very effective
anti-sickness drugs to prevent or greatly reduce this. If you do feel sick it may begin a
couple of hours after the treatment is given and last for up to a couple of weeks. If the
sickness is not controlled, or continues, tell your doctor. They can prescribe other drugs
which may be more effective.
Hair loss. This usually starts 3-4 weeks after the first dose of Ifex,
although it may happen earlier. 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
the 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.
Irritation of the bladder. It is important to try and drink plenty of
fluids to prevent any irritation. You will usually be given fluids into your vein before
and after the chemotherapy is given. You may also be given a drug called mesna which
protects the bladder and kidneys.
While you are having the chemotherapy you will be encouraged to pass urine every 3-4
hours during the day, and last thing at night. Your urine will often be measured and
tested for the presence of blood. If blood is present in the urine further doses of mesna
will be given.
Changes to nails. Your nails may become ridged, but this change grows
out over a few months once the treatment has finished.
Less common side effects of Ifex
Your liver may be temporarily affected. Ifex may cause changes in the
way that your liver works, which will return to normal when the treatment is finished.
This is very unlikely to cause you any harm, but your doctor will monitor this carefully.
Samples of your blood will be taken from time to time to check your liver function.
Skin changes. Ifex can cause a rash, which may be itchy. Your doctor
can prescribe medicine to help with this. Your skin may darken, due to excess production
of pigment. This usually returns to normal a few months after the treatment has finished.
Confusion, lethargy, sleepiness and loss of balance. These are very
rare and only occur with high dose treatment. If you notice any of these effects it is
important to tell your doctor. |