Rx Note

Introduction Cytotoxic drugs, along with surgery and radiotherapy, remain the mainstay of cancer treatment. However, newer treatments based on targeting the specific malfunctions of cell cycle control that characterise cancer cells, and on increasing their susceptibility to immunological attack, are becoming increasingly important. These include hormone antagonists, kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies. Ministry of Health Systemic Therapy Protocol 2016 The Ministry of Health Systemic Therapy Protocol focuses on chemotherapy and targeted therapies for treating solid tumours. While not intended to replace international protocols, it serves as a valuable quick reference in the local setting. For all provisional registered pharmacists, I personally recommend starting with chapters 14 and 15, which cover these essential topics: Pre-Chemotherapy Assessment Important Formulas: BSA and Calvert Formula Management of Emesis Pre-Medication for Specific Chemotherapy Dose Modification Gui...

Introduction Extravasattion refers to unintentional or inadvertent leakage (or instillation) of fluid out of a blood vessel into surrounding tissue. A variety of symptoms, including erythema, ulceration, pain, tissue sloughing, and necrosis, are possible. A variety of drugs have been reported to cause tissue damage if extravasated. Irritant - An agent that causes aching, tightness, and phlebitis with or without inflammation, but does not typically cause tissue necrosis. Irritants can cause necrosis if the extravasation is severe or left untreated. Vesicant - An agent that has the potential to cause blistering, severe tissue injury, or tissue necrosis when extravasated. Can be further classified into DNA binding and non-DNA binding. Initial Management Stop the infusion: At the first suspicion of extravasation, the drug infusion and IV fluids should be stopped. Do NOT remove the catheter/needle: The IV tubing should be disconnected, but the catheter/needle should be left in place...