Doxil (liposomal doxorubicin): What to Expect, Side Effects, and More
Doxil (chemical name doxorubicin HCl liposome) is used to treat breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (also called metastasized). The medicine is sometimes given on its own or in combination with other medicines.
See doxorubicin hydrochloride prescribing information.
How Doxil works
Doxil is a form of anthracycline chemotherapy doxorubicin that is contained in a fat-like molecule called a liposome. Because Doxil is contained inside a liposome, it is easier for the body to absorb. The medicine disrupts DNA replication in cancer cells, slowing cell growth and eventually causing the cells to die.
Daunorubicin, Ellence, and mitoxantrone are other anthracyclines.
What to expect during Doxil treatment
Doxil is given intravenously, as an infusion. It’s given in treatment cycles every three to four weeks to allow your body time to rest and recover after treatment.
You may have blood tests and/or an ECG (electrocardiogram) and should have an echocardiogram before starting Doxil.
Doxil side effects
Like almost all breast cancer medicines, Doxil can cause side effects, some of them severe.
The most common side effects of Doxil are:
low white blood cell count(leukopenia or neutropenia)
increased risk of bleeding from low platelet counts
mouth soresor taste changes
irregular periods — this can include temporary cessation (usually resume after medication is completed) or permanent cessation of menstrual periods depending on your age and other factors
Doxil may also cause severe side effects, including:
Infusion reactions: Symptoms include flushing, shortness of breath, facial swelling, headache, chills, chest pain, back pain, tightness in the chest and throat, and fever.
Myelosuppression: Because of the potential for bone marrow suppression, careful hematologic monitoring is required during the use of Doxil, including white blood cells, neutrophils, platelet counts, and hemoglobin (Hgb) and hematocrit (HCT).
Cardiac toxicity: Acute left ventricular failure may occur with doxorubicin. Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease should be treated with Doxil only when the potential benefit of treatment outweighs the risk, and when heart testing shows that your heart is functioning normally.
You should not take Doxil if you’re pregnant or nursing.
Chemotherapy may also affect your fertility.
Real patient reviews
Members of our community discuss their experiences with Doxil in the community forum. Here are some of their comments. Remember, it's very important to talk to your doctor about any side effects you're having and ask about ways to manage them.
“I'm on my second week. The first week kicked my butt. [I got sleepy, dizzy, and achy.]” —pajim
“I lost a couple of toenails on Doxil, and my nails are still screwed up three months after quitting the drug.” —steelrose
“Right now I get Doxil once in 3 weeks. It’s tolerable so far.” —s3k5
Read more in our Doxil discussion forum.
Paying for Doxil
The cost of Doxil may vary. The price you’ll pay depends on the drug manufacturer, your health insurance provider and plan, where you live, and the pharmacy you use. You may also be charged for the office visits required for Doxil infusions.
Note: Your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization before covering Doxil.
Learn more about financial assistance and medicine cost-lowering tips.
— Last updated on September 15, 2024 at 2:03 PM
