Cancer refers to a potentially fatal disease in which cells within the body multiply at a fast rate. Sometimes, cancer cells can form tumors and spread to numerous parts of the body. Cancer drugs, also known as chemotherapy, are designed to destroy these cancer cells. Fortunately, common cancer drugs exist.
Paclitaxel
Paclitaxel, commonly sold as Taxol or Abraxane, is an antimicrotuble agent that halts cancer cell growth. Specifically, this is a common medication used to treat cancer of the breast, ovaries and lung. MedlinePlus says that paclitaxel's less concerning side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, mouth sores and pain, swelling or redness at the injection site. Paclitaxel's serious side effects include easy bleeding or bruising, chest pain, fatigue, pale skin and an irregular heartbeat. Call a doctor when paclitaxel leads to these effects. Taking medications such as diltiazem, nifedipine, cisplatin, verapamil or amlodipine may require a decrease in paclitaxel's dose. Paclitaxel is available as an intravenous injection given once every three weeks.
Etoposide
Etoposide, commonly sold as Vepesid or Etopophos, is another common cancer drug that treats cancers of the stomach, bone, testicles, blood and lung. Drugs.com says that etoposide is an antineoplastic drug that eliminates cancer cells. Its less common effects include black stools, easy bleeding or bruising, mouth or lip sores and lower back pain. Etoposide's common side effects include weakness and fatigue. Rarely does this medication cause difficulty breathing, a fast heartbeat and wheezing. Etoposide may interact with such medications as St. John's Wort, cyclosporine and fosaprepitant. Etoposide is given weekly or as prescribed as a tablet or injection.
Gemcitabine
Gemcitabine, commonly sold as Gemzar, is a cancer medication that also stops cancer cell growth within the body. Drugs.com says that gemcitabine treats cancer of the breast, pancreas and lung. Its less serious side effects include constipation, diarrhea, hair loss, a skin rash and swelling of the feet, ankles and hands. Gemcitabine's serious side effects include easy bleeding or bruising, chest pain, bloody urine, breathing problems and body aches. Phone a doctor when gemcitabine leads to these effects. A patient suffering from liver or kidney disease may require a reduction in gemcitabine's dose. Gemcitabine is an injection taken once a week for seven weeks or less.
