Gynaecologic cancer affects a women’s reproductive organs, such as the ovaries, cervix, uterus, vagina, and vulva. While all women can develop gynaecologic cancer, the risk of these ailments increases as a woman grows older.
In many instances, doctors recommend surgical treatments for gynaecologic cancers. However, chemotherapy and hormone therapy may also be recommended, either in conjunction with surgery or as a stand-alone treatment.
While it can depend on the specific type of cancer, the following medications are approved to treat cancers affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the peritoneum (which is tissue that covers the abdominal organs and the abdominal wall):
A type of chemotherapy, melphalan prevents cancerous cells from growing and dividing. It can be administered orally or via injection. Side effects include nausea, anaemia, increased risk of infection, and bruising and bleeding.
Bevacizumab acts on a certain protein that is often produced by cancer cells. By obstructing this protein, the growth of new blood vessels will be halted, which will then prevent tumours from growing. Bevacizumab is administered intravenously, and side effects can include high blood pressure, a heightened chance of infection, fatigue, and peripheral neuropathy.
Also administered intravenously, doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome prevents cancer cells from growing by blocking a specific enzyme. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting. Doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome can also impact the growth of healthy cells, so doctors must weigh the risk of side effects against the benefits of this treatment.
An enzyme inhibitor, olaparib is an oral medication that is administered in conjunction with chemotherapy. Olaparib targets cancer cells and kills them to stop them from spreading to other areas of the body. Side effects can include fatigue, headache, diarrhoea, dizziness, rash, and decreased appetite.
Rucaparib camsylate is provided to support other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy. The drug works by stopping an enzyme that is integral in the repair of DNA. When this enzyme is blocked in cancer cells, they’re unable to repair themselves and subsequently die. People taking rucaparib camsylate may experience stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of appetite, and cold-like symptoms.
The side effects of cancer medications like those described above can often be challenging to manage. That’s why patients are encouraged to speak with their physicians about any side effects they experience. Particularly serious side effects may require immediate medical management to prevent worsening effects. Also, a patient may need to pursue a different drug regimen if the side effects are too severe.