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Doxil Chemotherapy Side Effects

Doxil's generic name is Doxorubicin liposomal. It is used to treat several types of cancers, including breast cancer, Kaposi's sarcoma and ovarian cancer. Doxil is not available in a pill, so it must be delivered directly into the blood stream through an IV needle.

  1. Side Effects of the Infusion

    • As a result of a Doxil infusion, patients may be short of breath, have swelling in the face, pain in the back, tightness in the chest or throat, and a drop in blood pressure.

    Low Blood Count

    • Doxil can cause a drop in decreased blood cell count in 30 percent of the patients that receive this treatment.

    Gastrointestinal Effects

    • Doxil can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, constipation and decreased appetite in 10 to 29 percent of patients.

    Hair, Nail and Skin Changes

    • Doxil causes hair to fall out, and the skin and nails to darken.

    Possible Long-Term Side Effects

    • After receiving this chemotherapy treatment, the risk of leukemia is elevated for many years.

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