When you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it's common to feel a great deal of fear and anxiety when you hear the word "chemotherapy." But being properly informed about this treatment is one of the best ways to manage that fear. Today, we're talking about one such cancer treatment, specifically a shot called Streptozocin, which is used for pancreatic cancer. If you've been prescribed this, this article will be very helpful.
What is Streptozocin?
Simply put, streptozocin is a type of chemotherapy drug. Cancer cells in our bodies are cells that divide and grow very quickly without control. Think of them as weeds spreading in a garden. This drug works by stopping the growth of those fast-growing cancer cells and controlling them. It is mainly used to treat pancreatic cancer . Sometimes doctors may prescribe it for other conditions as well.
Things to tell your doctor before starting treatment
To safely administer this treatment to you, your doctor needs to have a complete picture of your health. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, it is essential that you tell your doctor without hiding anything .
- If you have diabetes .
- If you have any infections (especially viral infections like chickenpox or herpes).
- If you have kidney disease .
- If you have abnormalities in your blood counts , such as low levels of platelets, red blood cells, or white blood cells.
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to streptozocin or another chemotherapy drug, other medication, food, or preservative.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
How will this medicine be given to you?
This medicine is not something you can take home. It is given as an injection into a vein or through a saline infusion. This treatment is only given in a hospital or clinic by a doctor or nursing staff who has been specially trained in this. So there is nothing to be afraid of.
If you are giving this medicine to a child, special care is required. Talk to your pediatrician about this.
If you are unable to go to the hospital on the scheduled day for treatment, do not skip it. Call your doctor immediately and inform him/her. If you suspect an overdose, immediately go to the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things you should be aware of during treatment
When undergoing chemotherapy, some of our healthy cells can be affected as well as cancer cells. That's why some discomforts occur. You need to think especially about your safety during this time.
Common problems and seeing a doctor
This medicine may make you feel a little sick and tired . This is normal. However, it is very important to complete the course of treatment prescribed for you, unless your doctor tells you to stop. Your doctor will check you regularly to see how you are doing.
Protection from infections
This medicine may weaken your body's immune system , which means you are more likely to get sick.
- Avoid crowded places and places where people with illnesses are as much as possible.
- If you develop symptoms like fever, cold, cough, or sore throat , do not self-medicate. Call your doctor immediately.
Pay attention to bleeding and bruising
This medicine can lower your platelet count , which can lead to increased bleeding and bruising from even minor injuries.
- When brushing your teeth, use a very soft toothbrush. Brush gently. Do not use objects like toothpicks to clean between your teeth, as this can damage your gums.
- If you notice anything like unusual bruising on your body, small red spots under the skin, blood in your urine, or black stools, tell your doctor immediately.
- If you are going to have dental treatment, you must tell the dentist that you are taking this medicine.
Be careful with other medications
Do not take painkillers such as aspirin, acetaminophen (e.g. Panadol), or ibuprofen without your doctor's advice. These medications can suppress symptoms such as fever, which can make it difficult to detect an infection inside your body.
Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Some medications may interact with this treatment.
Pregnancy and lactation
This is very important. Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine. This medicine can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Also, avoid breastfeeding while taking this medicine.
What are the possible side effects of the medication?
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. However, not everyone gets them. You can get a clear understanding of this from the table below.
| Side effect | Description and what you need to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Signs of infection | Fever or chills, cough, sore throat, pain when urinating. |
| Bleeding symptoms | Bruises on the body, red spots on the skin, black stools, and blood in the urine. |
| Symptoms of low red blood cells | Unusual tiredness, paleness, blue eyes, fainting. |
| Kidney problems | Decreased urine output or difficulty urinating, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands. |
| Other serious symptoms | Difficulty breathing, mental confusion, yellowing of the eyes or skin, pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site. |
| If it persists or becomes bothersome, inform your doctor. | |
| Digestive system problems | Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. There are medications to control these as well. |
Take-Home Message
- Streptozocin is a powerful anti-cancer drug given in a hospital by trained medical professionals.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- During treatment, be very careful about signs of infection such as fever, cough, and unusual bleeding. If you suspect anything, tell your doctor immediately.
- Do not take any painkillers without your doctor's advice.
- Avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding completely while taking this treatment.
- If you have any questions, concerns, or doubts about your treatment, don't keep them to yourself, but talk to your doctor. You are not alone, there is a medical team to help you.
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