Tips for Getting Through AC Chemo - (Adriamycin & Cytoxan)
Adriamycin & Cytoxan, also known as "AC", also known as "Red Devil", is a commonly prescribed chemo regimen. Below is a primer for patients who're undergoing this treatment.
Tips for Managing Side Effects on AC Chemo:
- Nausea is particularly tough with this regimen. Take anti-nausea meds around the clock, every 3 hours, alternating between anti-emetic meds. Ie., Zofran before breakfast, Compazine at lunch, Zofran in the mid afternoon, Compazine at dinner, Ativan at bedtime, etc. Some patients do well by also taking Compazine when they’re finishing up their infusions, as the nausea can hit hard that same evening.
- Note that Zofran taken back-to-back, has been known to cause constipation and headaches. Sometimes Aloxi is given with the infusion, which is supposed to stay in the body and protect against nausea for 48-72 hours, but many patients report mixed reviews on its effectiveness (some have complained about bad headaches from Aloxi, which is a “cousin” to Zofran).
- Hydrate as much as possible, targeting drinking at least 75 oz of water per day, to help flush out toxins. Go in for additional IV hydration (Ask for a bag of hydration at the end of infusion, and go in 1-2 days after infusion, more as needed.)
- Suck on ice chips or a popsicle during the “red” (Adriamycin) chemo portion of the infusion to prevent mouth sores.
- Use Biotene mouthwash and toothpaste to help prevent and soothe mouth sores.
- Brush teeth with an extra soft toothbrush throughout duration of treatment.
- If mouth sores occur or persist, rinse with a mixture of water, salt, and baking soda. Your oncologist may also prescribe a "Magic Mouthwash" formula.
- Take a stool softener (not a laxative) to counteract constipation / dry stools caused by antinausea meds.
- Aquaphor / Preparation H is helpful if hemorrhoids develop from constipation.
- Daily walks / light exercise will help alleviate side effects.
- To lessen bone pain associated with the Neulasta shot for boosting WBC, take daily Claritin (loratidine) in the days immediately before, during, and after Neulasta.
- If experiencing heartburn / reflux, take over the counter Pepcid and / or Tums.
- It is important to discuss any and all side effects with your medical team so that they can make adjustments to your infusions as needed.