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Liposomal Doxorubicin (lip-oh-SOE-mal dok-soh-ROO-bih-sin) (Caelyx®, Doxil®, Myocet®) What is this medication used for? Liposomal doxorubicin destroys cancer cells by interfering with their growth cycle. The molecules of the drug are enclosed (encapsulated) in a fatty coating known as a liposome. The liposome allows the drug to remain in the circulation for longer so that a greater amount of chemotherapy is delivered to the cancer cells and fewer side effects occur for healthy tissue.
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given?
Special instructions: • Tests to check heart function are done before this drug is given and at certain times throughout the course of treatment. • Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing outdoors while taking this drug. • This medicine can cause irritation if it leaks out of the vein. Tell the person giving the medicine if any burning or pain is felt while it is being given. If the skin becomes red or swollen, call your healthcare provider. If a blister or scab forms, do not pop it or pick at it. • Frequent laboratory monitoring will be needed, including blood cell counts, kidney function tests, and liver function values. • Tell your healthcare provider about all prescriptions, over- the-counter medications, and herbal products you are taking and about any allergies you have. • Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are the common side effects? • Allergic reaction, including fever or chills • Mouth sores (mucositis) • Loss of appetite (anorexia) or changes in taste • Skin changes, soreness, and peeling of palms of hands and soles of feet • Sensitivity to the sun • Generalized weakness and tiredness • Darkening of skin at the site of previous radiation • Weight loss • Urine may turn pink or red for 2 days after treatment. • Low blood counts 1–2 weeks after treatment What are the less common side effects? • Heart muscle damage (may be a late effect) • Nausea or vomiting • Hair loss (alopecia) • Inability to get pregnant or father a child (infertility) • Constipation or diarrhea
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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