Misc Chemo Trivia Likely on Test Flashcards

1
Q

Explain the mechanism of Methotextrate and how to address toxicity

A

Methotextrate is a antifolate chemotherapy agent, meaning it targets the metabolic process by inhibiting folate-mediated DNA synthesis and stopping cancer growth.

Folate, usually in the form of Leucovorin calcium, is used as an antidote if the levels are too high (“rescue” the patient)

Bonus: PT’s should NOT take multivitamin when on it

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2
Q

Recommendation for Capecitabine/Xeloda

A

Take after food (within 30 minutes of a meal) with water

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3
Q

Concerns for Dexamethasone/Decadron

A

It’s a glucocorticosteriod (steroid), so hyperglycemia is a large concern. Can also cause muscle weakness, fluid retention and weight gain.

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4
Q

Recommendation for Imatinib/Gleevec

A

Must be taken with a large glass of water after a meal

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5
Q

Concerns for Irinotecan/Campostar
(or any treatment with –IRI– in it, examples: FOLFIRI, FOLFIRINOX)

A

Tends to cause abd cramping, N/D, hair loss

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6
Q

Recommendation for Pemetrexed/Alimta

A

Usually requires folic acid and vitamin B12 supplementation to reduce side effects

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7
Q

Recommendation for Procarbazine/Matulane

A

Needs to be on a low-tyramine Diet to prevent interaction

Foods high in Tyramine include aged/cured/fermented/smoked/unpasteurized foods.
Examples: sourdough, sauerkraut, pickles/olives, kimchi, overripe fruit, aged cheese, cultured dairy like yogurt/buttermilk/kefir, pepperoni/chorizo/salami, liver, pickled or cured fish(lox), canned sardines, large amount of nuts, wines/beer, miso/teriyaki sauce, chocolate

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8
Q

What’s the major concern with Cisplatin/Platinol?

A

Very toxic to kidneys — this is why labs will always be taken and they will always get IVF with infusion

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9
Q

What’s a unique side effect(s) for Doxil/Doxorubicin liposomal?

A

Hand/foot syndrome and red/orange urine color change

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10
Q

What’s a side effect or Opdivo/Nivolumab that’s potentially severe?

A

Colitis

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11
Q

Concern for Oxaliplatin?
(Or any treatment with –OX in it — example FOLFOX, CAPEOX, FOLFIRINOX)

A

Neurotoxicity — peripheral neuropathy, sensitivity to cold, and laryngopharyngeal dysesthesia

Can also cause hepatic toxicity or have an allergic reaction

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12
Q

AC (Adriamycin + Cytoxan) is a Common regimen for what cancer? What is a common side effect concern?

A

N/V can be severe with Cytoxan, particularly in larger doses – and usually within 6-10 hours of infusion. Should have premeds for nausea. Also commonly has poor appetite.

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13
Q

What are the instructions for taking Temozolomide/Tremodar?

What are the common side effects?

A

Must be taken on an empty stomach – 1 hour before or 2 hours after any food – an with at least 8 oz of water

N/V and constipation

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14
Q

What are the common side effect of 5-FU/fluorouracil?

A

Taste changes, particularly metallic during the actual infusion. N/V, D, poor appetite, and mouth sores.

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