Chemotherapy, the use of medications to kill cancer cells, is often used in the treatment of ovarian cancer. These medications enter the bloodstream and are able to kill cancer cells throughout the body. There are various chemotherapeutic drugs for ovarian cancer, and depending on the stage of the cancer, your general health and any responses to previous chemotherapy, treatment regimens can vary. While there are numerous side effects of chemotherapy drugs, not everyone will experience all the side effects. Many are manageable and subside once treatment has ended.
Carboplatin (Paraplatin)
Carboplatin is often combined with a taxane drug, and this combination is the standard approach to treating ovarian cancer. Carboplatin, generic for the brand name drug Paraplatin, is a platinum-based chemotherapy drug that interferes with the growth of cancer cells, aiding in cell death. This medication is typically given intravenously over 15 to 60 minutes, or it can also be infused into the peritoneal cavity through a port. Side effects of this drug can include lowered white and red blood cell counts (which can lead to anemia and increased risk of infection), altered kidney function and brittle hair.
Paclitaxel (Taxol)
Paclitaxel, or Taxol, is typically combined with carboplatin to treat ovarian cancer. A taxane drug, it interferes with cell structures and eventually leads to cell death. The medication is usually given intravenously over approximately three hours, every three weeks, although it can be given in smaller doses weekly. Common side effects include lowered white and red blood cell count, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, mild nausea and vomiting, diarrhea and hair loss.
Topotecan (Hycamtin)
Topotecan, or the brand name drug Hycamtin, is a second-line chemotherapy drug that can be given to individuals with ovarian cancer, according to Johns Hopkins Pathology. It is a plant alkaloid that is a topoisomerase I inhibitor, which means it blocks the enzyme topoisomerase I, which certain cells need to multiply. This medication can be given intravenously over 30 minutes or orally, in capsules. Common side effects of topotecan can include lowered white and red blood cell count, nausea or vomiting, hair loss and diarrhea.
Etoposide (Toposar)
For some ovarian cancers that do not respond to platinum-based chemotherapy, the drug etoposide, or Toposar, may be used. Etoposide is a plant alkaloid that interferes with the enzyme topoisomerase II, which cells need when they divide. This drug can be given intravenously over 30 to 60 minutes, or orally as a capsule once or twice a day. Side effects of this medication include lowered white blood cell count, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, loss of hair and lowered blood pressure.
