Ovarian cancer is a potentially life-threatening disease in which cancer cells multiply at a very fast rate. According to The Mayo Clinic, signs of ovarian cancer include abdominal bloating, swelling or fullness, pelvic discomfort and urinary urgency. Sometimes, ovarian cancer leads to low back pain, nausea, a poor appetite and changes in bladder habits. Chemotherapy medicines for treating ovarian cancer can slow the progression of this potentially deadly disease.
Oxaliplatin
Oxaliplatin, commonly sold as Eloxatin, is a cancer drug that treats ovarian, colon and rectal cancers. According to Medline Plus, this drug is a platinum-containing antineoplastic agent that destroys cancer cells. Some of oxaliplatin's less concerning side effects include diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, nausea, depression, anxiety, sweating, peeling of the skin, a dry mouth and flushing. In some instances, oxaliplatin leads to hiccups, mouth sores and heartburn. A few of its serious side effects include chest pain, a cough, bloody urine, trouble speaking, weakness and visual problems. Call a doctor when oxaliplatin leads to these effects. Taking such drugs as warfarin and oral anticoagulants may require a change in oxaliplatin's dose. Oxaliplatin is an injection given once every 14 days.
Cyclophosphamide
Cyclophosphamide, commonly sold as Cytotoxan, Cytotoxan Lypophilized or Neosar, is a cancer medication that halts cancer cell progression. It treats ovarian as well as nephrotic syndrome (a type of kidney disorder). According to Drugs.com, cyclophosphamide's less concerning side effects include mouth sores, changes in skin color or nails, a rash, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Cyclophosphamide's serious side effects include chest pain, difficulty breathing, lower back pain, easy bleeding or bruising, black stools and bloody urine. Sometimes, this medication leads to an allergic reaction or signs of an infection. Difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives and swelling of the lips, tongue or face are just some signs of an allergic reaction to cyclophosphamide. Signs of an infection include a fever, sore throat and chills. Notify a physician when cyclophosphamide leads to these effects. Cyclophosphomide is a tablet taken two times a week; it is also an intravenous (through the vein) injection given every seven to 10 days.
Carboplatin
Carboplatin, commonly sold as Paraplatin, is another cancer medication that specifically manages ovarian cancer. Carboplatin's less concerning side effects include temporary hair loss, fatigue, a poor appetite, vomiting and redness, swelling and swelling at the injection, according to Drugs.com. Some of carboplatin's serious side effects include visual or hearing problems, easy bruising, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, sores in the mouth or throat, and low magnesium. Signs of low magnesium include an irregular heart rate, an irregular heartbeat and muscle weakness. Call a physician when carboplatin's effects develop. Suffering from a weakened immune system and liver or kidney disease requires a change in carboplatin's dose. Carboplatin is given as an intravenous (through the vein) injection once every month.
