Side Effects
Some patients may be at greater risk of infection during this phase of treatment because the number of white blood cells (which fight infection) is reduced. Many patients with colorectal cancer may develop iron deficiency anemia, usually due to loss of blood in the gastrointestinal tract. This anemia can be more severe during chemotherapy, and other medications may be prescribed to reverse the anemia. At times, blood transfusions might be recommended.
The most common side effects of 5-FU are diarrhea and mucositis, an inflammation of the mucosa, which is the layer of tissues that lines the mouth and the rest of the digestive tract. Nausea is less common with this drug.
Numbness of the fingers and toes and fatigue can occur while taking oxaliplatin.
A common side effect of irinotecan is diarrhea.
A variety of side effects have been reported with Xeloda®, including pain and numbness in the hands and feet called "hand-foot syndrome."
Side effects of Avastin® include high blood pressure and effects on the kidney with spillage of protein in the urine. A rare side effect is the rupture of the intestines or colon, which may require another operation.
If you experience side effects, talk to your doctor, who may adjust your treatment to eliminate them or reduce their severity.