Navelbine 13
Navelbine also called vinorelbine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat mesothelioma, non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, and bladder cancer. Navelbine is a colorless fluid, which is also available in 20mg or 30 mg capsules. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to speak with your doctor.
Germcitabine is administered as a drip through a fine tube inserted in the vein. It can also be administered through a PICC line or a central line, or in capsule form with a full glass of water. Take the capsules “exactly” as directed.
Each person reacts to chemotherapy differently. Some people have few or no side effects while other experience more side effects. It is important that you are aware of what the side effects may be.
Lowered resistance to infection – Cisplatin can cause a reduction in the production of white blood cells making you more susceptible to infection. It usually begins around day 7 reaching its lowest point around day 14 and the beginning to produce white blood cells, returning to normal around day 21 in time for your next chemotherapy treatment. Fever or signs of not feeling well even without fever should be seen at the hospital right away. If you develop a fever of 100.5ºF or 38ºC got to the hospital right away.
Bruising and/or bleeding – because cisplatin reduces your platelet production, which is what helps the blood clot, you may experience bruising and/or bleeding including nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and blood spots.
Anemia – it is caused by a low number of red blood cells that can occur from your cisplatin treatment. This can cause you to be tired and even breathless. If your red blood cells are too low, you will be given a blood transfusion
Diarrhea – usually this can be controlled with over the counter medication but if that does not work ask your doctor for something. Always remember to drink plenty of fluids so you do not become dehydrated.
Nausea and vomiting – these side effects can begin right after treatment and last for several days. You doctor can prescribe an anti-emetic which will reduce your nausea and vomiting substantially. If the first drug prescribed does not work talk to your doctor because there are many different ones that can be tried.
Tingling or numb feet or hands – this is called peripheral neuropathy and is the result of the way cisplatin affects the nerves. It is very rare on a standard chemo dosage but it has been known to happen more often on higher dosages. You may also notice that you have trouble doing tasks that require fine motor skills like doing up your buttons. Tell your doctor if you notice any of these signs.
Constipation – usually it can be relieved by drinking plenty of fluids and eating a diet high in fiber. You may need to have your doctor prescribe medication to stimulate the bowel.
Tired – it is normal to feel very tired after your chemotherapy treatment. Take the time you need to rest.
Weakness – can occur after treatments. It generally begins to pass around day 10. As your doctor about minerals and vitamins that might help.
Pain along the injected vein – if irritation occurs at the injection site flushing the drug with more fluid should reduce the irritation.
Less common side affects are:
Hair loss – this is rarer than you might think. It does happen when dosages are high and begins to occur around 3 weeks after treatment is started. It is temporary and your hair will grow back.
Allergic reaction – signs of an allergic reaction include itching, a skin rash, and redness on the face, dry mouth, headache, labored breathing, anxiety, and fever. Tell you doctor or nurse immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
Leakage around the vein – If navelbine leaks around the vein, it can damage the tissue. If you notice a burning or stinging around the vein when your drug is being administered it is important to tell your doctor or nurse.
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk with your doctor.