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Together is a new resource for anyone affected by pediatric cancer - patients and their parents, family members, and friends.
Learn MoreChemotherapy
Brand names:
Adriamycin®
Other names:
Hydroxydaunomycin hydrochloride, Doxorubicin hydrochloride
Often used for:
Leukemia, Lymphoma, Wilms tumor, Neuroblastoma, Sarcomas, Other solid tumors
Doxorubicin is a type of chemotherapy. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cells. It is usually used in combination with other medicines.
Doxorubicin can cause serious heart problems. These problems can occur during therapy or months to years later. Families should tell the care team right away if the patient has a cough, a heartbeat that does not feel normal (such as too fast or too slow), swelling in the arms or legs, shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, tiredness or weakness. The care team may order tests before and during treatment to see if the patient’s heart is working well enough to receive doxorubicin.
Patients will have regular blood draws to check blood counts and monitor liver and kidney function. This medicine can cause heart damage, and heart function will be closely monitored.
Doxorubicin can cause tissue damage if it leaks from the vein. Patients may have irritation and skin damage at the IV site. Let a caregiver know if there is burning during administration.
Given as a liquid into a vein by IV or injection
Not all patients who take doxorubicin will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Some patients may experience long-term or late effects of treatment that may continue or develop months or years after treatment ends. Possible late effects due to doxorubicin include:
Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.