Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells and is often used in the treatment of breast cancer. It may be given after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or prior to surgery to help shrink the tumor. According to the American Cancer Society, chemotherapy is typically more effective when a combination of drugs is used. There are various combination chemotherapy regimens for breast cancer, but there is no one combination that is the most effective.
Adriamycin and Cytoxan (AC) with or without Taxol (T)
Adriamycin (generic name doxorubicin) and Cytoxan (cyclophosphamide) is a standard chemotherapy regimen for breast cancer, according to Chemocare.com, and Taxol (paclitaxel) may be added to this combination, depending on the situation. Side effects of Adriamycin may include lowered red and white blood cell counts (which can lead to anemia and increased risk of infection), mouth sores and hair loss. Cytoxan side effects can include lowered red and white blood cell counts, irritation of the bladder, menstrual cycle changes, decreased appetite and hair thinning or loss. Taxol side effects that may occur are a lowered white and red blood cell count, diarrhea, numbness or tingling of the hands and feet, muscle aches and bone pain.
Cytoxan, Mexate and Fluorouracil (CMF)
CMF, a chemotherapy combination for breast cancer, consists of Cytoxan, Mexate (methotrexate) and Fluorouracil (5-fluorouracil). Mexate may cause loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, skin changes and diarrhea, according to the American Cancer Society. Fluorouracil side effects may include lowered white blood cell count, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, thinning hair and diarrhea. This combination of chemotherapy drugs may also be seen as CAF, where Adriamycin is substituted for Mexate.
Ellence and Cytoxan (EC)
Another combination chemotherapy regimen for breast cancer is Ellence (epirubicin) and Cytoxan. Ellence may cause fatigue, menstrual cycle changes, urine discoloration, low red and white blood cell counts, nausea and vomiting, mouth sores and hair loss.
