Experiencing issues with Faslodex? Learn about potential side effects and possible solutions.
Faslodex, a brand-name injection used for certain types of breast cancer, can cause a variety of side effects. While common side effects include fatigue, nausea, and injection site reactions, some less common but serious side effects should be monitored carefully.
One such serious side effect is liver enzyme elevation and potential liver toxicity. Regular liver function monitoring is necessary to catch any issues early [1][3]. Severe liver problems, although not common, are significant enough to warrant caution.
Another serious side effect to watch for is severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include skin rash, itching, flushing, swelling under the skin, typically in eyelids, lips, hands, or feet, swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe [2].
Injection site reactions, although less common, can be severe or persistent. If you experience persistent pain or swelling at the injection site, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider [2].
It's also important to be aware that serious adverse events have been reported in about 9% of patients receiving Faslodex in clinical trials [3].
Other less common side effects include urinary tract infections, as Faslodex is given by injection and can cause localized or systemic responses [2].
Established medical literature supports that serious but rare effects can also include thrombosis, hypersensitivity reactions, and worsening of pre-existing liver disease [4].
In addition to these serious side effects, common side effects such as bone pain, joint pain, pain at the injection site, nausea, headache, diarrhea, fatigue, pain in the arms, legs, and back, hot flashes, vomiting, loss of appetite, muscle pain or weakness, cough, urinary tract infection (UTI), shortness of breath, rash, dizziness, fever, hair loss, and constipation may occur [5].
Constipation was commonly reported in clinical trials of Faslodex. To help ease constipation, you can try staying hydrated, eating foods that are high in fiber, and getting regular exercise [5]. If constipation does not improve on its own, your doctor may recommend certain medications such as a stool softener or a laxative.
Headache was also commonly reported in clinical trials of Faslodex. Symptoms of a headache can include pain in your neck or face, pain that feels like a band around your head, and dull or throbbing pain in your head. To help ease a headache, you can try applying warm compresses or ice packs, laying down in a dark, quiet room, and gently massaging the forehead or neck [6]. If you have frequent, painful headaches, talk with your doctor. They may recommend certain medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), to help manage your headache.
It's important to note that it's not known whether Faslodex passes into human breast milk. For this reason, breastfeeding should be avoided while taking Faslodex and for 1 year after the last dose [5]. Similarly, Faslodex is not safe to use in pregnancy. It's also recommended to use birth control while receiving Faslodex and for 1 year after your last dose [5].
Faslodex belongs to a drug class called estrogen receptor antagonists and is available in a generic version. Before taking Faslodex, it's crucial to discuss your health history with your doctor. This drug may not be the right treatment for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health [7].
As with most drugs, Faslodex can cause an allergic reaction in some people. However, it's not clear whether this side effect occurred in clinical trials [7]. If you develop serious side effects while taking Faslodex, call your doctor right away.
References:
[1] Drugs.com. (2021). Faslodex Side Effects. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/sfx/faslodex-side-effects.html
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Faslodex (fulvestrant) for breast cancer. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/faslodex-fulvestrant/description/drg-20074823
[3] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Faslodex (fulvestrant). Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/drugs/paclitaxel-carboplatin-fulvestrant
[4] UpToDate. (2021). Fulvestrant. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/fulvestrant
[5] FDA.gov. (2021). Faslodex Highlights of Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/021625s032lbl.pdf
[6] WebMD. (2021). Headache Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/headache-symptoms-causes
[7] RxList. (2021). Faslodex Drug Interactions. Retrieved from https://www.rxlist.com/faslodex-drug-interactions.htm
