FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab is a chemotherapy regimen that is used in advanced colorectal cancer and consists of the drugs leucovorin, fluorouracil and irinotecan, which together are the FOLFIRI regimen plus bevacizumab. These drugs all have the potential for side effects, although not everyone on this regimen will have every side effect. Side effects vary according to the dosage used and the dosing schedule, as well as individual reactions. Many of the side effects are manageable during treatment and subside once treatment has ended.
Leucovorin
Leucovorin, also known as folinic acid, typically has few side effects, according to the American Cancer Society. If used with 5-fluorouracil (fluorouracil), it can make side effects from that drug worse, especially nausea and mouth sores. Mild allergic reactions may occur with leucovorin, such as facial flushing, skin rash, itch, fever or chills.
Fluorouracil
Fluorouracil, or 5-FU, is typically given with leucovorin to enhance its effectiveness. Common side effects with this drug include lowered white blood cell and platelet count--increasing your risk of infections and easy bruising/bleeding, mouth and lip sores, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, thinning hair, diarrhea and sensitivity to sunlight. Side effects that are less common can include weakness, eye irritation, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, confusion, blurry vision and problems walking.
Irinotecan
Irinotecan, also known as Camptosar, is a drug commonly used to treat colon or rectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Common side effects of this medication include severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, abdominal pain, lowered white blood cell count, appetite loss and weakness. Side effects that may occur but are less common are the formation of major blood clots, mouth sores, constipation, skin rash, dizziness and fever or chills.
Bevacizumab
Bevacizumab, or Avastin, can be added to the FOLFIRI regimen in the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer. This drug is a targeted therapy drug and attaches to a certain protein to help fight cancer. Side effects of bevacizumab can include high blood pressure, diarrhea, mouth sores, headache, loss of appetite, fatigue and weakness. Other side effects that can occur are nosebleeds, blood clots, lowered white blood cell count, constipation and abdominal pain.
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