Bone pain caused by cancer is something that really bothers and distresses many people. Sometimes this pain is unbearable. So today we are going to talk about a special, powerful medicine that can help control this kind of severe pain.
What is this Samarium-153 Lexidronam?
Simply put, this is a radioactive drug . Its brand name is `(QUADRAMET)`. Its main function is to relieve severe pain that occurs when cancer spreads to the bones. The word "radioactive" may scare you a little. But it is administered to the body in a controlled manner, under medical supervision, so there is nothing to be afraid of. This drug is like a missile that goes to the target, finding the painful bone areas and treating them there.
Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication
This is very important. Before starting this medication, you should give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell them about these things in particular.
- If you have heart disease .
- If you have any kidney disease .
- If you have anemia, which causes a decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets in the blood.
- If you have low blood calcium levels .
- If you have allergies to this medicine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Do not hide any of this information. It is essential for your safety and the success of your treatment that the doctor knows all of this.
How can I give you this medicine?
This medicine is not something you can use at home. It is given as an injection into a vein . It is only given in a hospital or clinic by a trained medical professional.
Although this medicine is usually given to young children over 16 years of age on special occasions, special precautions are followed.
What to do if the medication dose is increased?
This is given in a hospital setting, so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you feel that the dose of the medicine has been increased in any way, inform the staff immediately. If you suspect any drug poisoning, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . You should also go to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately.
Special things to be aware of when taking medication
There is a certain responsibility on your part after taking this medicine. Be very careful about these things.
Be especially careful because it is radioactive!
This is the most important thing. Your urine will become radioactive within the first 12 hours after you receive the medicine. So be sure to do these things to protect yourself and others.
- Use a toilet to urinate whenever possible.
- Flush the toilet several times after urinating.
- If you accidentally spill a drop of urine on the floor or anywhere else, clean the area thoroughly.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap every time.
- If you get a little urine or blood on your clothes, wash them separately from other clothes. Or, put them away for a week or two. The radioactivity will then dissipate.
Other things to consider
- Blood tests and medical checkups: Get blood work done as scheduled by your doctor. Also, see your doctor to check on the progress of your treatment.
- Risk of infection: This medicine may slightly reduce the body's immunity. Therefore, if you experience symptoms such as fever, cold, or sore throat, do not self-medicate. Call your doctor immediately. It is also a good idea to reduce your visits to places where sick people are during this time.
- Bleeding risk: You may notice more bruising and bleeding in different parts of your body. If you have bleeding gums or nosebleeds, or if your stools are black or bloody, tell your doctor immediately.
- Increased pain: Sometimes, bone pain may increase slightly in the first few days after the medication is given. This is normal. You can talk to your doctor about it and take painkillers.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Let's take a look at what they are and what to do about them in this table.
| Nature of the side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| If any of these occur, inform your doctor as soon as possible. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Chest pain | Feeling of chest pain or tightness. |
| Abnormal bleeding | Bloody or dark black stools, red/dark brown urine, vomiting coffee grounds, red spots on the skin, bleeding gums/nose. |
| Signs of infection | Fever or chills, cough, sore throat, urinary tract infection. |
| If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Other minor ailments | Feeling uneasy, dizzy, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting. |
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, you can. This medicine may interact with other medicines, especially if you are taking other cancer medicines or medicines that suppress the immune system. Therefore, give your doctor a complete list of all the medicines you are taking (including vitamins, herbal medicines, and supplements) . It is also important to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Take-Home Message
- Samarium-153 Lexidronam is a special radioactive drug that is given only in a hospital setting to treat bone cancer pain.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor all your health information and medications you are taking.
- Be very careful about your urine for the first 12 hours after taking the medicine. Be sure to follow the safety precautions mentioned.
- If you notice anything like fever, signs of infection, or unusual bleeding, don't wait and inform your doctor immediately.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this treatment, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.
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