Metastatic breast cancer is breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body besides the breasts. One of the most common places of metastasis is the lung. Treatment for metastatic breast cancer is not necessarily dependent on where the cancer has spread. There are several chemotherapy drugs that are used in treating metastatic breast cancer. According to breastcancer.org, using one chemotherapy drug at a time for mestastic breast cancer is better than using combinations of drugs because it limits the side effects while maximizing the benefits.
Abraxane (Paclitaxel Protein-Bound Suspension)
Abraxane, the brand name for the paclitaxel protein-bound suspension, is a drug used to treat metastatic breast cancer. It has been shown to be more effective than Taxol in treating metastatic breast cancer, with fewer side effects, states breastcancer.org. This drug is administered intravenously over half an hour, every three weeks, according to the American Cancer Society; the exact dosage depends on how much you weigh and how tall you are, your blood counts and your response to the drug. Side effects of Abraxane can include lowered white and red blood cell counts, which can lead to increased risk of infection and anemia; nausea or vomiting; hair loss; fatigue; and lip or mouth sores. This medication can also cause neuropathy in the hands and feet, which is nerve damage and feels like pins and needles, with tingling or burning in the extremities, or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. When taking Abraxane, grapefruit and grapefruit juice can alter the levels of the drug in your body; talking to your health care team about this can provide more information about whether you should avoid these.
Gemzar (Gemcitabine)
Gemzar, the brand name for the drug gemcitabine, is another chemotherapy drug used to treat metastatic breast cancer. The drug is given intravenously over 30 minutes, typically once a week for two weeks, followed by a week of no treatment, explains the American Cancer Society. Side effects of this drug can include lowered white and red blood cell counts; lowered platelet counts, which can lead to easy bruising and bleeding; fatigue; nausea and vomiting; appetite loss and fever. Gemzar can adversely affect the liver and kidneys, so your blood will be tested throughout treatment to make sure these organs are functioning properly. Breastcancer.org estimates that the response rate for Gemzar ranges from 20 to 40 percent of patients, with the average response being approximately eight months.
Navelbine (Vinorelbine)
Navelbine, also known as the generic drug vinorelbine, is given intravenously, says chemocare.com. The drug may cause side effects like lowered white and red blood cell counts, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness, constipation, diarrhea, hair loss and neuropathy. This drug does interact with various other medications like certain antibiotics, antidepressants, blood pressure medications and anti-fungal drugs, according to the American Cancer Society. If you are on any other medications, talk to your health care team to make sure that the drugs will not adversely interact with one another.
