Cancer Medications Flashcards
What are some characteristics of Doxorubicin ?
it prevents cancer cells from reproducing
(Antitumor Antibody-chemo agent)
- SE: cardiotoxic, heart failure, dysrhythmias, ECG changes, SOB, peripheral edema, decreased activity tolerance, liver failure, myelosuppression, mucositis, alopecia
- RN Implications: pt shouldn’t have immunizations without HCP approval, first void will be pink (med red in color)
- cell cycle non-specific
What are some characteristics of Cyclophosphamide ?
prevents cancer cells from reproducing by causing break in double-stranded DNA
(Alkylating agent)
- SE: myelosuppression, N/V, alopecia, hemorrhagic cystitis
- RN Implications: increase fluid intake, empty bladder frequently, give early in the day, premedicate for N&V, monitor renal function
- cell cycle non-specific
What are some characteristics of Trastuzumab (Hereceptin)?
used in HER2 (+) breast cancer (monoclonal antibody), blocks the HER2 receptors and blocks signals that tell cancer cells to proliferate
(Monoclonal Antibody)
- SE: cardiotoxic, hypersensitivity reactions, flu-like S&S
- RN Considerations: monitor for S&S of cardiotoxicity
- targeted therapy
What are some characteristics of Tamoxifen ?
Used in ER (+) breast cancer in PRE & POST menopausal women
- SE: hot flashes, irregular vaginal bleeding/spotting, decreased visual acuity, thromboembolic events, fluid retention, N&V
- RN Considerations: report changes in vision, monitor for S&S of DVT, pulmonary embolism and stroke, report SOB, leg cramps and weakness, monitor for weight gain
- increased risk for endometrial cancer (because its a hormonal therapy)
What are some characteristics of Pembrolizumab (Keytruda)?
used with NSCLC whose cancer has grown with other tx’s, and boosts the immune response against cancer cells (helps prevent cancer cells from hiding)
- SE: hypersensitivity reaction, SOB, diarrhea or increase in bowel movements then usual
- it’s an immunotherapy (PD-1 blocker)
What are some characteristics of Paclitaxel (Taxol) and Vincristine ?
it works in the M-phase which interferes with mitosis (cell-cycle specific)
- SE: peripheral neuropathy, constipation, alopecia, VESICANT
- RN Considerations: implement bowel protocol, monitor for constipation, assess for neurotoxicity
