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VIDE 224

VIDE 224

This leaflet provides information on a course of chemotherapy called VIDE.  The leaflet will explain what this is and when and how it is given.  It will also tell you about common side effects that you may experience.  Contact telephone numbers and details of how to obtain further information on VIDE are given at the end of the leaflet.

This leaflet should be read alongside the ‘General information for patients receiving chemotherapy’ folder.  If you haven’t received this folder please ask your nurse for a copy.

What is VIDE chemotherapy?

VIDE chemotherapy consists of four drugs:

  • Vincristine
  • Ifosfamide
  • Doxorubicin
  • Etoposide

Together these drugs are known as VIDE for short.

Why am I having VIDE chemotherapy?

Your doctor has recommended this chemotherapy because it has been found to be particularly effective in treating your type of cancer.

How often will I receive my chemotherapy?

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 VIDE every three weeks for up to six cycles.  Your doctor will discuss with you the exact number of cycles you will receive.

Will I need any tests before I begin my chemotherapy?

Yes.  Before you start your chemotherapy you will have a series of blood tests and investigations.  You will also have what is known as a MUGA scan to assess your heart function.  Please ask if you would like any further information.

Will I need to stay in hospital to have VIDE chemotherapy?

Yes, you will need to be admitted to the chemotherapy in-patient ward for four days to have your chemotherapy.  

How will my treatment be given?

To receive this chemotherapy you will need to have a fine tube put into one of the large veins in your upper arm.  This tube is called a PICC line.  Your PICC line is usually put in about a week before you start your chemotherapy.  It will stay in place throughout the course of your treatment.  Your doctor will explain this in more detail.  

We have a leaflet that tells you more about PICC lines.  Please ask if you would like a copy. 

The chemotherapy will be given through a drip connected to your PICC line.  Your drip will be attached to a portable stand with wheels so you will be able to move around the ward area.  If you need assistance the nurses will be there to help you.

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.

What are the possible side effects?

There are a number of possible side effects which can occur with this chemotherapy.  The doctor, nurses and pharmacy team 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.  

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 will 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 when you are at home after your chemotherapy treatment, contact Velindre Cancer Centre for advice.  The telephone number is at the end of the leaflet.

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 if your temperature is below 35.5°.  The telephone number is at the end of the leaflet.

Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is not common with this chemotherapy.  However, if you have four or more bowel movements in 24 hours above what is normal for you please contact Velindre Cancer Centre immediately.  The telephone number is on page 7.

Tiredness and fatigue 

Chemotherapy can make you 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 taking rest.

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.

Effects on your nerves

Vincristine can affect the nerves in your fingers and toes giving the feeling of numbness or pins and needles.  The nerves to your bowel may also be affected.  This may result in constipation.  Some patients may also have jaw pain or headaches if the nerves to the head are affected.  If you develop any of these problems please tell your doctor or nurse at your next visit to clinic.

Cystitis (bladder irritation)

Ifosfamide can sometimes irritate your bladder and cause cystitis.  This means you may notice some burning and pain when passing water, and need to pass water frequently.  This is not common as we will give you a drug called mesna which should prevent this happening.  If you get cystitis please tell your nurse or doctor.

Effects on your heart

Doxorubicin can cause heart problems.  Please tell your doctor if you have any heart problems or you take any heart medicines.  Before you start your chemotherapy treatment, a scan called a MUGA scan is usually done to check for any heart problems.  This may be repeated later on in your treatment.

Skin and tissue damage

Some chemotherapy drugs may damage the skin and surrounding area if they leak outside of your vein.  This is known as extravasation.  It is extremely rare but it is important that you tell us immediately if you notice any pain or burning at the site of the drip.  If this occurs whilst the chemotherapy is being given, tell your nurse.  If you notice pain, swelling or redness when you’re at home please contact us immediately.  The telephone number is at the end of the leaflet.

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

Doxorubicin will harmlessly discolour your urine red for a day after your chemotherapy.  If this lasts for more than 24 hours please contact Velindre Cancer Centre for advice.

A small number of patients who have ifosfamide may feel drowsy, become confused and hallucinate.  These symptoms are very rare and usually go away within 48 hours of stopping treatment.  If you have any of these symptoms or your family notice any changes in your behaviour, please tell your nurse or doctor.

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.

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.

Manufacturer’s patient information leaflets

Velindre leaflets provide information about very common and commonly reported side-effects (we are unable to list all of the common side effects), for more information regarding these and 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:

  • Are sick more than once in 24 hours
  • Have a temperature of 37.5°C or above or below 35.5°centigrade
  • Have diarrhoea
  • Have red urine for more than 24 hours

Pharmacy Department 029 2061 5888 ext 6223

Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm for queries about your medicines

Macmillan freephone Helpline 0808 808 0000

 

Tenovus freephone 0808 808 1010

cancer helpline 

 

This information is also available in Welsh

This leaflet was written by health professionals.  The information contained in this leaflet is evidence based. It has been approved by doctors, nurses and patients.  It is reviewed and updated every 2 years.

Reviewed October 2019