Doxorubicin

Early side effects

• Nausea and vomiting may occur during and after treatment and may last for 1 to 2 days.
  There are medications available, which may prevent or decrease these side effects. If you are given these medications, take them as directed.
• Pain or skin damage similar to a burn may happen if the drug leaks outside the vein.
• Transient rash along the vein being used for injection may occur.
• Urine may be coloured pink or orange or red for 1 to 2 days after the drug is given.

Delayed side effects

• A drop in the white blood cell counts may occur 7 to 14 days after treatment.
• Temporary hair loss may begin 2 to 3 weeks after treatment.
• Mouth ulcers and/or tenderness may occur within 1 to 4 days of treatment.
• Nail changes (discolouration, appearance of white or dark streaks, loosening of nails from nail beds) may occur.

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Fever of 38°C or higher, chills or sore throat.
• Sore throat, hoarseness or mouth sores.
• Pain and itchiness, redness or swelling at or near the injection site.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising or black tarry stools.
• Signs of heart problems such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, swelling of feet or lower legs.