Breast cancer refers to a potentially life-threatening condition in which cells in the breast grow at a rapid rate. The Mayo Clinic says that breast cancer is one of the most common cancer in women within the United States after skin cancer. Signs of breast cancer include a bloody discharge from the nipple, a breast lump, an inverted nipple or redness or pitting of the breast. Drugs treatments for breast cancer exist to halt the progression of this potentially deadly disease.
Exemestane
Exemestane, commonly sold as Aromasin, is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as aromatase inhibitors. Drugs.com says that exemestane specifically treats advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. This medication specifically stops the body from making estrogen, the hormone necessary for breast cancer cell growth. Exemestane's common side effects include diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, hot flashes and weight gain. Some of its serious side effects include severe or sudden bone pain, vomiting, fainting and swelling of the feet, hands or legs. Call a doctor when exemestane leads to these effects. This medication may interact with such drugs as estrogens, carbamazepine, rifampin or phenytoin. Exemestane is a tablet taken daily.
Cyclophosphamide
Cyclophosphamide, commonly sold as Cytotoxan or Neosar, is a cancer drug that slows the growth of cancer cells. It also prevents these cells from spreading to different parts of the body. Drugs.com says that cyclophosphamide's less serious side effects include diarrhea, stomach pain, temporary hair loss, mouth sores and vomiting. Some of cyclophosphamide's serious side effects include yellowing of the skin or eyes, easy bleeding or bruising, a sore throat, fever and chills. Call a doctor when cyclophosphamide leads to these effects. Suffering from such medical conditions as heart disease, kidney or liver disease or bone marrow problems may require a decrease in cyclophosphamide's dose. Cyclophosphamide is a tablet or liquid taken daily or as directed.
Transtuzumab
Transtuzumab, commonly sold as Herceptin, is a monoclonal antibody medication that treats breast cancer. Specifically, it halts the growth of cancer cells. MedlinePlus says that transtuzumab's less concerning side effects include heartburn, stomach pain, acne, depression, nosebleeds and constipation. Some of transtuzumab's serious side effects include a fever, chills and a sore throat. Call a doctor when transtuzumab's effects develop. Taking paclitaxel may require a decrease in transtuzumab's dose. Transtuzumab is a tablet given daily every one to three weeks.
