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Side Effects of Chemotherapy

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Potential Side Effects of Chemotherapy?

These potential side effects of chemotherapy can appear very alarming however it is important understand that this includes all the common side effects for a variety of drugs used to treat many different tumours. Less than 5% of pets who have developed severe adverse effects require hospitalisation, and death due to chemotherapy adverse effects is reported to be less than 1%.

Please observe your pet closely during treatment and telephone us if you feel he/she seems ill or you have any questions or concerns. Your pet may need to be seen by us or your local vet (or their emergency service) if there are any severe side effects. The following are potential adverse reactions to treatment and appropriate actions.

Steroid Drugs (prednisolone tablets)

Steroid Drugs (prednisolone tablets) often have a role in cancer treatment protocols and these may be given at high doses in the early stages of treatment. Noticeable side effects may include your pet drinking more, and so they will need free access to water and frequent opportunities to urinate. Their appetite often increases and some dogs will appear to puff and pant a bit more. These side effects are generally mild, reversible and improve as the dose reduces.

Steroids need to be administered with food or on a full stomach because they may upset the stomach. Please stop steroids if your pet does not eat vomits or has diarrhoea and seek veterinary advice.

Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs) and Painkillers
Infection and Fever
Nausea or Vomiting
Diarrhoea or Constipation
Cystitis
Hair loss
Liver Disease
Kidney Disease
Increased Blood Pressure
Tiredness
Allergic Reaction
Lung and Skin Toxicity
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Please observe your pet…

Please observe your pet closely during treatment and telephone us if you feel he/she seems ill or you have any questions or concerns. Your pet may need to be seen by us or your local Vet (or their emergency service) if there are any severe side effects. Most adverse reactions are manageable when spotted early with appropriate therapy or interruption or decrease in dose of the chemotherapy that caused it.

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