Name of the Procedure:

Injection, doxorubicin hydrochloride, 10 mg
Common name(s): Adriamycin, Liposomal Doxorubicin
Technical/medical term: Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Injection

Summary

Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Injection is a chemotherapy treatment used to treat certain types of cancer. It involves injecting a medication into a vein to destroy cancer cells.

Purpose

Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Injection is used to treat various cancers, such as breast cancer, bladder cancer, and lymphomas. The primary goal is to reduce or eliminate cancerous cells in the body, slow cancer progression, and improve patient survival rates.

Indications

• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Lymphomas
• Leukemia Patients who are generally good candidates for this procedure are those diagnosed with one of the aforementioned malignancies and who have been deemed appropriate for chemotherapy.

Preparation

• Blood tests to check liver and kidney function.
• Fasting may not be required, but patients are generally advised to eat a light meal beforehand.
• Inform the healthcare provider of any other medications currently being taken.
• Pre-hydration and medications to manage side effects such as nausea may be administered.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be seated or lying down in a comfortable position.
2. A nurse or healthcare provider will insert an intravenous (IV) line into a vein, typically in the arm.
3. Doxorubicin Hydrochloride will be administered slowly through the IV line over a specific period, which can vary based on the dose and treatment plan.
4. The healthcare provider will monitor the patient for any immediate reactions or side effects.

Tools/Equipment:

• Sterile IV needle and tubing
• IV bag or syringe containing doxorubicin hydrochloride
• Infusion pump (if applicable)

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not typically required. Some patients may receive anti-nausea medications before the procedure.

Duration

The injection process typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Injection is usually administered in an outpatient oncology clinic, hospital, or cancer treatment center.

Personnel

• Oncology nurse or chemotherapy-certified nurse
• Oncologist (may not be present but oversees treatment plan)
• Pharmacist (prepares and verifies the medication)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Hair loss
• Fatigue

• Low blood cell counts (increased risk of infection)

  Rare Risks:

• Heart damage or cardiotoxicity
• Severe allergic reactions
• Secondary cancers (rare but possible long-term risk)

Management:

• Regular monitoring of heart function
• Pre-medications to reduce nausea
• Blood tests to monitor blood cell levels

Benefits

• Destruction or reduction of cancer cells
• Potential to induce remission or prolong survival
• Improvement of cancer-related symptoms

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home the same day.
• Rest and hydration are encouraged.
• Follow-up appointments for blood tests and monitoring.
• Potential restrictions on strenuous activities if significant fatigue or low blood counts are experienced.

Alternatives

• Other chemotherapy agents
• Radiation therapy
• Surgical interventions
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy options Pros and Cons:
• Some alternative treatments may have different side effect profiles.
• The choice depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.

Patient Experience

During:

• The patient might feel a slight pinch when the IV is inserted.
• Some may experience mild discomfort at the injection site. After:
• It is normal to feel tired or experience nausea.
• Pain management strategies include prescribed anti-nausea medications and rest.
• Tips for staying comfortable include drinking plenty of fluids, eating small and frequent meals, and engaging in light activities.

This structured information provides a comprehensive overview of the procedure, ensuring patients are well-informed about what to expect and how to prepare.