Adriamycin-Pfs IV

Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.

Nail changes (including fungal infections in the nail beds) may rarely occur.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• cough/hoarseness
• persistent diarrhea
• redness/flushing of face
• eye redness/itching
• unusual tiredness
• joint pain
• pain in the lower back/side/stomach/abdomen
• painful/difficult urination
• stopped/missed menstrual periods

Painful sores on the lips, mouth and throat may occur. To decrease the risk, limit hot foods and drinks, brush your teeth carefully, avoid using mouthwash that contains alcohol, and rinse your mouth frequently with cool water.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur:

• black/tarry stools
• bloody mucus or discharge in stools
• fast/irregular heartbeat
• shortness of breath
• dizziness
• swelling of ankles/feet
• decreased urination

Seek immediate medical attention if this rare but very serious side effect occurs:

• chest pain

Within days to weeks after doxorubicin treatment, a serious skin reaction that looks likes a severe sunburn (radiation recall) may develop on any area of skin that has been previously treated with radiation. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop skin redness, pain, tenderness, swelling, peeling, or blisters. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help your skin heal faster and reduce the swelling. In addition, you should avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

In children, radiation recall may occur in the lungs. Tell the doctor immediately if you notice wheezing or trouble breathing in the child.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: