Hodgkin's disease, also known as Hodgkin's lymphoma, refers to a cancer affecting the lymphatic system. This system carries fluid containing white blood cells that fight infection. The Mayo Clinic says that symptoms of Hodgkin's disease include swelling of the lymph nodes in the armpit, neck or groin; fatigue; fevers; chills; and unexplained weight loss. Fortunately, some common chemotherapy drugs for Hodgkin's disease exist.
Etoposide
Etoposide, commonly sold as Toposar, VePesid or Etopophos, is a chemotherapy drug that treats Hodgkin's disease. MedlinePlus says that etoposide belongs to a class of medications known as podophyllotoxin derivatives. This medication stops the growth of cancer cells within the body. Etoposide's common side effects include vomiting, nausea, stomach pain and diarrhea. Its serious side effects include shortness of breath, a sore throat, chills, easy bleeding or bruising, persistent diarrhea and pain at the injection site. It is important to inform a physician when etoposide leads to these effects. Aspirin and vitamins may interact with etoposide. This medication is a tablet or injection taken daily or as prescribed.
Bleomycin
Bleomycin, commonly sold as Blenoxane, is a cancer drug that belongs to the class of drugs known as antineoplastics. Drugs.com says that bleomycin's common side effects include a fever, chills, shortness of breath, mouth sores and a cough. Some of bleomycin's less common side effects include faintness, weakness and confusion. Some of bleomycin's rare side effects include chest pain and weakness in the arms. It is important to tell a physician when bleomycin leads to these effects. Suffering from kidney, liver or lung disease may require a decrease in bleomycin's dose. This medication is an injection given daily or as prescribed.
Vincristine
Vincristine, commonly sold as Oncovin or Vincasar PFS, is another cancer medication that treats Hodgkin's disease. This medication halts the growth of cancer cells. Drugs.com says that some of vincristine's less serious side effects include tumor pain, jaw pain, temporary hair loss, vomiting, weakness and fatigue. Some of vincristine's serious side effects include seizure, numbness, tingling, pale skin, chest pain and yellowing of the skin or eyes. It is important to call a doctor when vincristine leads to these effects. Suffering from coronary artery disease, liver disease and myasthenia gravis may require a decrease in vincristine's dose. Vincristine is an injection given once a week.
