ADAP drugs: doxorubicin

doxorubicin (Adriamycin)

Drug description

Doxorubicin is used alone and in combination with other drugs for treatment of tumors including malignant lymphomas and leukemias. A new liposomal version of this drug called Doxil has been recently approvedl as a Kaposi’s sarcoma treatment. Liposomal means that the drug is put inside tiny bules of fat. These fat bules should take more of the drug to where it’s needed, and reduce side effects.

Side effects
This drug causes additive bone marrow depression in combination with other cancer treatments and radiation. It should not be given if you are pregnant or breast feeding. If there is liver impairment, dosage must be reduced, and if you have had previous radiation, your skin may be aggravated at the site. Hair loss is possible. The drug can make your urine appear red for 1-2 days. Risk of mouth inflammation is greatest 5-10 days after treatment and usually lasts 3-7 days.

Dosage
Doxorubicin is given intravenously. Dose for adults is 60-75 mg/m2 once in 21 days, or 30 mg/m2 daily for 3 days every four weeks. Total cumulative dose should not exceed 550 mg/m2 without monitoring for cardiac function.

How long it may take to work
The effectiveness of treatment can be seen by decrease in size or spread of malignancies in solid tumors, or improvement of hematologic status in leukemias.

Managing side effects
Notify your doctor promptly if you have fever, sore throat, signs of infection, bleeding gums, bruising, blood in stools or urine, and increased fatigue. Avoid crowds and persons with known infections. Use a soft toothbrush and electric razor and avoid falls. Do not drink alcoholic beverages or take drugs containing aspirin because these can cause gastric bleeding. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water after eating and drinking. Practice contraception during treatment and for at least 4 months after therapy is concluded. Notify your doctor immediately if you have irregular heart beat, shortness of breath, or swelling of legs. Tell your doctor if you get a skin irritation at the site of previous radiation therapy. Do not receive any vaccinations without discussing with your doctor.

This information is specific to the use of this medication for HIV-related conditions. For additional information about this drug for other conditions, refer to: www.nursespdr.com/ and www.healthanswers.com/Library/library_fset.asp

The drug descriptions on these pages are intended for informational purposes only. The Network does not promote or endorse the use of any specific treatment for any health-related condition. The medications described here can only be dispensed by a licensed health care professional. The information may have changed since these pages were updated, though every effort is made to keep these pages current. Please contact The Network at (800) 734-7104 to make sure you have the most up-to-date information

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