Chemotherapy

Question 1

Antitumor Antibiotic

+ doxorubicin (Adriamycin)

Answer 1

INDICTIONS: Solid tumors.

MODE OF ACTION: Binds to DNA, inhibiting DNA and RNA synthesis. Causes death of rapidly replicating cells.

SIDE EFFECTS: GI upset, alopecia, bone marrow supression (anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia), cardiac toxicity, RED DISCOLORATION OF URINE/SWEAT/TEARS.

KEY POINTS: Monitor for infection, administer antiemetics for N/V, monitor cardiac function, monitor CBC levels.

Question 2

Antibiotic Medication

+ vincristine (Oncovin)

Answer 2

INDICATIONS: Variety of tumors/cancers.

MODE OF ACTION: Stops cell division during mitosis (M phase specific). DOES NOT CAUSE BONE MARROW SUPPRESSION.

SIDE EFFECTS: PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY, phlebitis (IV site), GI upset, alopecia.

KEY POINTS: Administer antiemetics for N/V, monitor for signs of neuropathy, use central line for infusion.

Question 3

Alkylating Agent

+ cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)

Answer 3

INDICTIONS: Variety of tumors/cancers.,

MODE OF ACTION: Inhibits protein synthesis by interfering with DNA and RNA synthesis.

SIDE EFFECTS: BONE MARROW SUPPRESSION (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), GI upset, HEMORRHAGIC CYSTITIS, alopecia.

KEY POINTS: Increase fluids (2-3 L) during therapy, MONITOR FOR BLOOD IN URINE. Monitor CBC levels. Give antiemetics for N/V.

Question 4

Prostate Cancer Medication

+ leuprolide (Lup

Answer 4

INDICATIONS: Prostate cancer.

MODE OF ACTION: Decreases levels of testosterone produced by testes.

SIDE EFFECTS: Hot flashes, gynecomastia, bone loss, decrease libido.

KEY POINTS: Increase calcium and vitamin D intake. Monitor PSA and testosterone levels during treatment.

Question 5

Breast Cancer Medication

+ tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

Answer 5

INDICATIONS: Breast cancer.

MODE OF ACTION: Competes with estrogen for binding sites in breasts, stopping growth of estrogen-dependent cancer.

SIDE EFFECTS: HOT FLASHES, GI UPSET, hypercalcemia, increased risk of endometrial cancer, pulmonary embolism.

Question 6

Biologic Response Modifiers

+ interferon alfa-2b (Intron A)

Answer 6

INDICATIONS: Cancers and viral infections (like Hepatitis).

MODE OF ACTION: Interferons are proteins that INCREASE IMMUNE RESPONSE to tumors/viruses. Decreases cancer cell production.

SIDE EFFECTS: MANY: FLU-LIKE SYMPTOMS (fever, muscle aches, chills, lethargy), bone marrow suppression, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity, alopecia, GI upset, psychiatric disorders.