Cervical cancer refers to a potentially fatal condition in which cervical cells grow at an abnormal rate. According to The Cleveland Clinic, signs of cervical cancer include pelvic pain, pain with urination, weight loss and a poor appetite. In some instances, cervical cancer leads to diarrhea and rectal pain or bleeding upon bowel movements. Fortunately, medicines for cervical cancer exist.
Topotecan
Topotecan, commonly sold as Hycamtin, refers to a cancer drug that specifically treats cervical cancer, ovarian cancer and lung cancer. According to Drugs.com, topotecan specifically stops the progression of cancer cell growth. Its less concerning side effects include temporary hair loss, vomiting, diarrhea, a skin rash, nausea, a headache and joint or muscle pain. Sometimes, topotecan leads to swelling or bruising at the injection site. This medication's serious side effects include a fever, body aches, weakness, pale skin and skin changes at the injection site. Inform a doctor when topotecan leads to these side effects. Topetecan is an injection or a capsule taken for 5 days or as directed.
Mitomycin
Mitomycin, commonly sold as Mutamycin, is another medication that can slow cervical cancer. According to MedlinePlus, mitomycin also treats adenocarcinoma of the pancreas and stomach. Its common side effects include a poor appetite, vomiting, nausea and thin or brittle hair. Some of mitomycin's serious side effects include trouble urinating, swelling of the feet or ankles, a sore throat, chills, a cough and easy bleeding or bruising. Additional effects include shortness of breath, trouble breathing, chills and pain, redness or swelling at the injection site. Notify a doctor when mitomycin leads to these effects. Mitomycin should be given only as an intravenous (through the vein) injection in 6 to 8 week cycles, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Paclitaxel
Paclitaxel, commonly sold as Taxol or Onxol, is a cancer medication that treats cervical, ovarian, lung and breast cancer. It curbs the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body, according to Drugs.com. Paclitaxel's less concerning side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, hair loss and pain, swelling, skin color changes and redness at the site where the injection was given. Paclitaxel's serious side effects include a slow heart rate, easy bleeding or bruising, chest pain, shortness of breath and irregular heartbeats. This drug also leads to increased blood pressure and seizures. Signs of increased blood pressure include a headache, blurry vision, chest pain, anxiety and confusion. Go to the emergency room when paclitaxel leads to these effects. Paclitaxel is an injection given every three weeks.
