What Is Oxaliplatin Chemotherapy
Oxaliplatin is a chemotherapy drug that is most commonly used to treat cancer of the colon. It can also be used for treatment of other types of cancers. The drug is administered intravenously by means of cannula that is inserted into the patient's vein. The length of the treatment using Oxaliplatin is based on the type of cancer the patient has. |
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Oxaliplatin chemotherapy treatment has some side effects associated with it. The side effects experienced by patients vary. While some experience few, there are others who can experience many side effects. The most common side effects experienced by people when they are given Oxaliplatin chemotherapy treatment are as follows:
- Tingling sensation in the limbs: Oxaliplatin has been known to cause peripheral neuropathy and this causes numbness or a tingling sensation in the hands and feet. However, many patients can experience the same sensation in the throat and neck. The solution to counter this side effect is to report it to your doctor who will then try to lower the dosage of the drug.
- Weakened immune system: Oxaliplatin can reduce your white blood cell count and this can leave you prone to infections and illnesses. This side effect usually manifests itself around 7 days after the treatment is started. But you do not need to be afraid as your WBC count will increase and go back to normal before the next cycle of chemotherapy begins. In case your white cell count does not return to normal before the next cycle of treatment, the doctors will delay the chemotherapy session for few days until it does.
- Easy bruising or bleeding: Just like Oxaliplatin affects the white blood cell count, it also has an adverse effect on your platelets which help the blood to clot. With a low platelet count, you can easily get unexplained bruising or bleeding. Some people experience nosebleeds, rash on the skin or suffer from bleeding gums.
- Anemia: This is common side effect of Oxaliplatin chemotherapy treatment and you may end up feeling constantly tired and breathless.
- Nausea and vomiting: Many patients feel nauseous and can vomit immediately after the treatment begins. It can last for a few days and if you experience this side effect of Oxaliplatin, you doctor will prescribe an anti-emetic for you. Be careful because certain anti-emetic drugs can cause constipation.
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