Doxorubicin is a chemotherapy medication known for a range of side effects, some common and some potentially serious[1].
Common side effects:
- Nausea and vomiting[1]
- Hair loss or thinning[1]
- Low blood counts (including red and white blood cells and platelets), which can lead to anemia, increased risk of infection, bruising, bleeding gums, or nosebleeds[1]
- Mouth sores or ulcers[1]
- Loss of appetite[1]
- Diarrhea or constipation[1]
- Fatigue and weakness[1]
- Redness, soreness, or peeling of the hands and feet[1]
- Temporary liver changes (usually mild)[1]
- Weight gain[3]
- Red or pink urine for a day or two after treatment (due to the drug color, not blood)[3]
Serious or less common side effects:
- Changes in heart rhythm or heart muscle damage—rarely leading to heart failure. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, swelling of the feet or ankles, chest pain, and fast or irregular heartbeat[3]
- Allergic reactions during or shortly after infusion: feeling hot, flushed, shivering, itching, rash, dizziness, swelling of face or mouth, breathlessness, back pain, or chest pain[4]
- Changes to nails, including darkening, pain, or nail loss[3]
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. If the drug leaks outside the vein during infusion, it can damage nearby tissue (extravasation)[4]
- Changes to menstrual cycle in women and temporary loss of sperm production in men[1]
- Darkening of the soles, palms, or nails[2]
- Sore eyes, stomach/abdominal pain, feeling thirsty, dizziness, burning or tingling in hands or feet[1]
- Cough, hoarseness, fever or chills indicating possible infection[2]
- Joint pain, swelling of the feet and lower legs[2]
Rare but important side effects:
- Black, tarry stools or blood in urine/stool (signs of bleeding)[6]
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin (possible liver problems)[6]
- Severe fatigue or extreme tiredness[6]
- Decreased urine output, tightness in the chest, dilated neck veins (possible heart or kidney issues)[6]
Some side effects may be delayed or persist after stopping treatment. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms, as some side effects (such as heart problems or severe infection) require prompt medical attention[2].
Leave a Reply