Keeping Healthy While on Chemotherapy
Your health and outlook can have a positive impact on how your body reacts to your
chemotherapy. As when undergoing any kind of medical procedure, it is important
to talk with your doctor and ask questions before you begin treatment.
A positive first cycle
How your chemotherapy begins can have an impact on how your body feels after following
cycles. In studies of people undergoing chemotherapy, those who experienced little
to no nausea and vomiting after the first treatment were likely to have little to
no nausea when receiving later treatments.
Taking care of your health
In addition to preventing CINV, there are many steps you can take to positively
influence your health.
Consider your basic health needs
Before you begin chemotherapy, it's a good idea to consider other basic health needs.
For example, if time permits have your teeth cleaned before rather than while you
are receiving treatment. Discuss any basic health concerns you may have with your
doctor.
Eat a good, healthy diet
Cancer treatment and CINV can result in loss of appetite and change your eating
habits. Not eating can lead to weight loss, weakness and fatigue. Eating a good,
healthy diet is important. To help stimulate your appetite and fight CINV, consider
Changing Your Diet.
Deal with fatigue
Fatigue — feeling tired physically, mentally, and emotionally — is a common symptom
of cancer and chemotherapy. It can affect your daily routine, your personal care,
and your relationships. Between 70% and 100% of people getting cancer treatment
have fatigue. Because your doctor may help, it is important to tell your doctor
or nurse if you are experiencing fatigue.
Five tips for dealing with fatigue:
- Rest, but don't overdo it. Too much rest can make you feel more tired.
- Stay as active as you can. Regular, moderate exercise is a good way to ease fatigue.
- Ask for assistance from family and friends. Don't force yourself to do more than
you can manage.
- Plan ahead. Save your energy, and schedule your activities for a time when you feel
the best.
- Take naps early in the day. This will help prevent a disruption of your sleep pattern
at night.
Indication
ALOXI injection is used in adults to help prevent nausea and vomiting on the day
of chemotherapy that is highly likely to cause nausea and vomiting, and up to 5
days following chemotherapy that is moderately likely to cause nausea and vomiting.
Important Safety Information
- Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking other medications or if you
are pregnant or breastfeeding
- The most common side effects of ALOXI® for
the prevention of CINV are headache and constipation
Please read the Full Product Information and discuss it with your doctor or
health care professional.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the
FDA. Visit http://www.FDA.gov/medwatch
or call 1-800-FDA-1088.