Cancer refers to an uncontrolled and rapid growth of cells within the body. The Mayo Clinic states that cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Some of its symptoms include unintentional weight loss, a persistent cough, chronic indigestion, weight changes and fatigue. Drugs for cancer treatment exist to help fight the disease and manage symptoms.
Bevacizumab
Bevacizumab, commonly sold as Avastin, is a cancer drug that stops the growth of cancer cells and blocks new blood vessels from forming. These blood vessels typically feed cancer cell growth. Drugs.com says that bevacizumab's specifically treats cancers of the lung, colon, rectum, breast or kidney. Its less serious side effects include dizziness, hair loss, increased thirst, diarrhea and a poor appetite. Some of bevacizumab's serious side effects include black or bloody stools, shortness of breath with mild exertion, chills, body aches and the flu. Bevacizumab is given as an intravenous (through the vein) injection once every two weeks.
Cetuximab
Cetuximab, commonly sold as Erbitux, is another cancer medication that stops cancer cell growth. Drugs.com says cetuximab specifically treats cancers of the rectum and colon. Its less serious side effects include a cough, a sore throat, a headache and weight loss. Cetuximab also causes a dry mouth, trouble swallowing and a poor appetite. Its serious side effects include chest pain, confusion, easy bleeding or bruising, body aches, chills and a fever. Notify a doctor immediately when cetuximab leads to these effects. It is available as an intravenous injection given once a week.
Ifosfamide
Ifosfamide, commonly sold as Ifex, is a cancer drug that specifically treats germ cell testicular cancer and bone soft tissue sarcomas. It also treats cervical, ovarian and lung cancer. MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health, says that ifosfamide's common side effects include thin or brittle hair and fatigue. Its serious side effects include shortness of breath, nausea, agitation, confusion, fever and dizziness. In some instances, ifosfamide leads to vomiting, nausea and easy bleeding or bruising. Phone a doctor if ifosfamide leads to these effects. Ifosfamide is an intravenous infusion given every week or as indicated.
Fludarabine
Fludarabine, commonly sold as Fludara and Oforta, is a cancer medication that specifically treats a type of blood cell cancer known as B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Drugs.com says that its less serious effects include muscle pain, fatigue, skin rash, nausea and itching. Fludarabine's serious side effects include dark colored urine, headache, visual problems, fainting and rapid weight gain. Phone a doctor immediately if fludarabine leads to these effects. Fludarabine is given as an injection every five days for a 28-day duration.
