Colon cancer is a potentially fatal disease in which cancer cells in the rectum and colon grow at a rapid rate. The Mayo Clinic says that colon cancer symptoms include weakness, fatigue, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss and fatigue. Colon cancer also leads to stomach cramps or gas. Medications used in treating colon cancer exist.
Fluorouracil
Fluorouracil, commonly sold as Adrucil or 5-FU, is a cancer drug that specifically treats cancer of the colon, breast, rectum, pancreas and stomach. Specifically, it halts the growth of cancer cells and prevents its spread throughout the body. MedlinePlus says that some of fluorouracil's common side effects include a headache, thin or brittle hair, achiness, weakness, a poor appetite and tingling of the hands or feet. Fluorouracil's serious side effects include yellowing of the skin or eyes, swelling of the feet or legs, easy bleeding or bruising, vomiting and joint pain. Signs of an allergic reaction to fluorouracil include difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the tongue, face or lips. Call 911 when this occurs. Fluorouracil is an intravenous (through the vein) injection once a day for four days or as prescribed.
Irinotecan
Irinotecan, commonly sold as Camptosar, is another cancer medication that stops cancer cell growth. Drugs.com says that irinotecan treats colon and rectal cancer. Its less serious side effects include a cough, temporary hair loss, dizziness and a poor appetite. Some of irinotecan's more serious side effects include chest pain, vomiting, nausea, black or bloody stools, watery diarrhea, pale skin and body aches. Notify a physician when irinotecan leads to these effects. Suffering from such diseases as diabetes, liver disease, fructose intolerance and an intestinal disorder may require a decrease in irinotecan's dose. This drug is an intravenous injection once a week or as prescribed.
Bevacizumab
Bevacizumab, commonly sold as Avastin, is another cancer drug that targets cancer cells and prevents them from growing and spreading to different parts of the body. Drugs.com says that bevacizumab treats cancers of the colon, kidney, rectum, breast or lung. Sometimes, it can be used to treat a brain tumor. Drugs.com says that bevacizumab's less concerning side effects include dizziness, hair loss, a dry mouth, diarrhea and a poor appetite. Its serious side effects include black or bloody stools, decreased urination, a headache, confusion, rapid weight gain and chills. Call a doctor when bevacizumab leads to these effects. Bevacizumab is an intravenous injection given once every two weeks.
