This leaflet provides information on pixantrone chemotherapy. It will explain what this is and when and how it is given. It will also tell you about possible side effects. Contact telephone numbers and details of how to obtain further information on pixantrone are given at the end of the leaflet.
This leaflet should be read alongside the ‘General information for patients receiving chemotherapy’ leaflet. If you haven’t received this leaflet please ask your nurse for a copy.
What is pixantrone?
Pixantrone is a chemotherapy that is given in a drip.
Why am I having pixantrone?
Your doctor has prescribed this chemotherapy because it has been found to be effective in treating your type of cancer.
How often will I receive my pixantrone?
For this treatment to be most effective it is given at specific time intervals. These are known as cycles. It is usual to have a cycle of pixantrone every 4 weeks for up to 6 cycles. In each 4 week cycle you will be given the pixantrone once a week for 3 weeks and then have one weeks rest.
How often will I see the specialist team?
You will see the specialist team before each cycle. You will have regular blood tests and we will check how you are feeling and discuss any problems you may have. This is so we can check how the chemotherapy is affecting you. If your blood results are satisfactory, your chemotherapy will be prescribed.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Your treatment will usually be on a different day to your clinic appointment. The chemotherapy treatment takes about an hour and a half. Please allow an extra 30 minutes for your first treatment.
Can I bring relatives and friends with me?
You are welcome to bring someone to stay with you during your treatment. Space is limited so there is not usually room for more than one person. Treatment areas are not suitable for young children.
How will my chemotherapy be given?
Pixantrone is given through a drip into a vein in the back of your hand or arm. Alternatively we may suggest that a fine tube called a PICC is inserted into a large vein in your upper arm. This will remain in place throughout your treatment. Your doctor or nurse will discuss this with you.
We have a leaflet that tells you more about PICC lines. Please ask if you would like a copy.
What are the possible side effects?
There are a number of possible side effects which can occur. The doctor, nurses and pharmacists can give you advice or answer any questions you may have.
Hair loss
Unfortunately you will lose your hair with this chemotherapy. This is only temporary. Your hair will grow back when your treatment has finished. If you would like a wig more information is provided in the coping with hair loss leaflet. We have a leaflet that tells you more about coping with hair loss. Please ask your nurse for a copy.
Sickness
Nausea and vomiting are uncommon these days as we give you anti-sickness medicines which are usually extremely effective. If you are sick more than once in 24 hours despite taking regular anti-sickness medicine contact Velindre Cancer Centre. The telephone number is on page 7.
Infection
You are at an increased risk of picking up infections because your white blood cells which help fight infections can be reduced by this treatment.
If you develop an infection whilst your white blood cells are low, you are at risk of sepsis, this can be life threatening.
Contact Velindre Cancer Centre immediately if you develop any signs of infection, for example flu like symptoms or a temperature above 37.5°centigrade or below 35.5°centigrade. The telephone number is at the end of this leaflet.
Sore mouth
Your mouth may become sore or you may notice small ulcers. Please follow the advice on caring for your mouth in the general chemotherapy leaflet. Your doctor may prescribe mouthwashes or medication to prevent or clear any infection
Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea is not common with pixantrone. However, if you have 4 or more bowel movements in 24 hours above what is normal for you, contact Velindre Cancer Centre immediately. The telephone number is on page 7.
Tiredness and fatigue
You may feel more tired than usual. It is important to listen to your body and rest if you need to, but carry out your normal activities if you feel able. Some people find it beneficial to take gentle exercise as well as rest.
Blood clots
A diagnosis of cancer can increase your risk of developing a blood clot (thrombosis), and having cancer treatment may increase this risk further. It is important to tell your doctor immediately if you have symptoms such as pain, redness and swelling in your leg, or breathlessness and chest pain.
Blood clots can be very serious. However, most clots can usually be successfully treated with drugs to thin the blood. Your doctor or nurse can give you more information
Other side effects
Pixantrone may cause heart problems. If you have a heart condition or you take any heart medication please tell your doctor before you start chemotherapy.
Pixantrone will harmlessly discolour your urine blue/green for a day after your chemotherapy. If this lasts for more than 24 hours please contact Velindre Cancer Centre. The telephone number is on page 7
Pixantrone may discolour your skin, if this occurs it may last for several days or weeks.
Some people may experience dry or itchy skin. Using a moisturiser may help.
Some patients may experience headaches. If this happens take what painkillers you would normally take.
Some patients experience dry or itchy eyes. If you notice your eyes are red and sore, this may be an infection which your GP can prescribe medication for.
If you develop a dry cough or notice that you are short of breath please tell us at your next hospital visit.
Joint and bone pains
Some patients may experience bone pain, joint pain or headaches for a few days. This is usually mild and should be relieved by the type of painkillers you would normally take for a headache. Please remember to check your temperature before taking any pain killers as they may lower your temperature, this could be hiding signs of an infection. If your temperature is above 37.5ºC telephone the telephone number on page 7.
Women sometimes find that chemotherapy treatment affects their periods. They could become heavier, lighter or even stop altogether.
It is important you do not become pregnant or father a child whilst having chemotherapy treatment as chemotherapy could damage the unborn baby.
Sometimes cancer drugs can have very serious side effects which rarely can be life threatening. It is important to inform Velindre cancer centre if you are concerned about any side-effects.
Manufacturer’s patient information leaflets
Velindre leaflets provide information about very common and common side-effects: for more information regarding the less common side-effects please refer to the manufacturers patient information leaflets, obtained from Velindre pharmacy and/or on the internet at www.medicines.org.uk. Sometimes patients may find these leaflets difficult to read however. Please ask if you would like a copy from your doctor or from Velindre pharmacy
Contact telephone numbers
Velindre Cancer Centre 029 2061 5888
Ask for the treatment helpline if you are unwell at home and need immediate attention at any time of the day or night. For example you should phone if you:
Pharmacy department 029 2061 5888 ext 6223
Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm for queries about your medicines
Tenovus freephone 0808 808 1010
cancer helpline
This leaflet was written by health professionals. The information is evidence based and has been approved by doctors, nurses and patients. It is reviewed and updated every 2 years.