Doxorubicin

Side effects are common with doxorubicin and can include:

• Decreased white blood cell counts. Red blood cell counts and platelet counts can also be reduced.
• Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
• Mouth sores and a sore throat.
• Hair loss. Your hair will grow back when treatment ends.
• Darkening of nail beds.
• Sun sensitivity and easy sunburning. Be sure to wear hats and sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of 30, and stay out of the sun as much as possible while you are being treated.
• Pink or orange urine for about 24 hours after the medicine is given.
• Redness and a feeling of uncomfortable burning on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.

Long-term use can cause weakening of the heart muscle. Symptoms may occur months or years after treatment. Tell your health professional if you have shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling in the feet or ankles.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

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