Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of U.S. cancer-related deaths in men and women combined, according to the American Cancer Society. Colon cancer is easily preventable with a proper screening schedule of colonoscopies. If cancer is found, the most common treatment is chemotherapy. Most chemotherapy medications interfere with the body's DNA to slow the growth or destroy cancer cells. They are almost always given under supervision of a doctor at a hospital or at a clinic.
Fluorouracil
Fluorouracil, also known as 5-FU, is an antimetabolite. Antimetabolites act by inhibiting cell division and slowing or stopping tumor growth. MedlinePlus states that the most common side effect of fluorouracil is a decrease in the number of blood cells. A decrease in white blood cells can cause immunosuppression, which lowers the body's resistance to disease. A decrease in red blood cells can cause anemia, which may cause shortness of breath. When the platelet count decreases, bruising and bleeding is more prevalent.
Oxaliplatin
Oxaliplatin, or brand name Eloxatin, is an alkylating cancer medication, which means it goes to work to disrupt cells during synthesis. According to Drugs.com, it slows the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. Oxaliplatin is associated with several serious side effects. It causes the body to be extremely sensitive to cold. Drinking cold liquids should be avoided, as well as breathing in cold air. Doing so can cause numbness in the mouth and cause the throat to close. According to Drugs.com, oxaliplatin can also cause nausea, hair loss and a change in taste. These side effects are typical of most chemotherapy drugs.
Irinotecan
Irinotecan slows the growth and spread of cancer cells like oxaliplatin but is considered a topoisomerase inhibitor. A topoisomerase inhibitor interferes with topoisomerase enzymes, which are responsible for manipulating DNA structure for replication. Irinotecan is also known by the brand name Camptosar. It can cause severe diarrhea, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. Severe diarrhea causes dehydration and quickly alters the electrolyte balance in the body. According to Drugs.com, an anti-diarrhea medication should be available at all times and taken immediately with the first sign of a loose stool.
