The generically named medication doxorubicin is marketed in the United States under the brand name Adriamycin. It is an antineoplastic drug prescribed in the treatment of cancer, including cutaneous T-cell lymphoma or CTCL. This, CancerConsultants.com reports, is a rare form of the disease known as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Doxorubicin works to prevent the growth of cancer cells and, in turn, destroys them. It is administered via injection.
Sores
The most common serious side effect of doxorubicin use, the Mayo Clinic reports, is sores on the lips and in the mouth of the person being injected. These may not at first appear serious, but they do require medical attention. The cancer patient should report these side effects to his physician as soon as he can.
Nausea and Diarrhea
As with many cancer medications, doxorubicin may induce stomach upset. This is classified as a non-serious common side effect of the medication and generally stops shortly after beginning treatment with it. Vomiting may also occur as well as diarrhea. This happens because the drug alters body systems as the body is growing accustomed to the medicine. Diarrhea may be accompanied by cramping in the abdomen.
Urine Discoloration
Using doxorubicin also probably will turn urine red for a day or two, Drugs.com reports. The Mayo Clinic points out this is not blood, despite the color. It is an expected side effect in those who are injected with the drug.
Hair Loss
Another side effect common to many cancer medications including doxorubicin is a loss of hair. While this is disconcerting and may be depressing, it is not a serious condition, Drugs.com states. The person's hair typically grows back following cessation of doxorubicin.
Weakness and Tiredness
Doxorubicin also may cause general weakness throughout the person's body as well as a feeling of tiredness during the initial stages of its use. This, too, is common with cancer-fighting drugs. These side effects may cause fatigue and lethargy, resulting in an inability to perform normal activities. Drugs.com reports these as non-serious and temporary common side effects of doxorubicin.
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