Patient Handout: Eribulin
What is Eribulin?
Eribulin is a chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer, including metastatic breast cancer and liposarcoma. It works by preventing cancer cells from dividing and growing, helping to slow the progression of the disease. Eribulin is typically used when cancer has spread to other parts of the body and has not responded to other treatments.
Eribulin is given by intravenous (IV) infusion in a healthcare setting, typically under the supervision of a doctor or nurse.
How Does Eribulin Work?
Eribulin belongs to a class of medications called microtubule inhibitors. It works by blocking the formation of microtubules, which are necessary for cell division. By disrupting this process, eribulin prevents cancer cells from dividing and multiplying, which helps control the growth of tumors.
How is Eribulin Given?
- Form: Eribulin is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion into your vein.
- Dosage: The exact dosage of eribulin depends on your individual treatment plan, which will be determined by your doctor. It is usually given once every 21 days.
- Administration Schedule: You will receive the IV infusion at your healthcare provider’s office or clinic. The infusion typically takes about 2–3 minutes, but the entire visit may take longer, as you may need additional monitoring and fluids.
- Treatment Cycle: Each treatment cycle typically lasts 21 days. You will usually receive the infusion on the first and eighth day of each cycle.
Possible Side Effects
Like all chemotherapy medications, eribulin can cause side effects. These can vary from person to person, and it’s important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any new or unusual symptoms.
Common Side Effects:
- Fatigue: You may feel more tired than usual. Rest and conserve energy, but let your doctor know if fatigue is affecting your daily activities.
- Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms may occur, but they can often be managed with anti-nausea medications.
- Hair Loss: Eribulin may cause temporary hair loss. Hair typically begins to regrow after treatment ends.
- Loss of Appetite: Some people may have a reduced appetite. Eating small, frequent meals may help manage this.
- Constipation or Diarrhea: Changes in bowel movements are common. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids, and let your doctor know if the symptoms are severe.
- Low White Blood Cell Count: This can increase your risk of infections. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts regularly during treatment.
- Numbness or Tingling in Hands/Feet (Peripheral Neuropathy): Eribulin can cause nerve damage, leading to tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hands and feet. Let your healthcare provider know if you experience these symptoms.
Serious Side Effects:
- Infection: Low white blood cells can make you more susceptible to infections. If you develop a fever, chills, sore throat, or unusual tiredness, contact your doctor immediately.
- Severe Nausea/Vomiting: If nausea or vomiting is severe and not controlled with medications, seek medical advice right away.
- Heart Problems: While rare, eribulin may cause changes in heart function. Report any chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats to your doctor immediately.
- Severe Neuropathy: If you experience severe numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in your hands or feet, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment.
Precautions Before Taking Eribulin
Before starting eribulin, tell your doctor if you have:
- Heart Disease: Eribulin may affect your heart function, so it’s important to inform your doctor if you have a history of heart problems.
- Liver Problems: Eribulin is processed by your liver, and your doctor may need to adjust the dose if you have liver issues.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Eribulin may harm an unborn baby. It is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment.
- Other Medications: Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with eribulin.
What to Avoid While Taking Eribulin
- Infections: Because eribulin can lower your white blood cell count, you may be more susceptible to infections. Avoid close contact with people who are sick or have infections.
- Live Vaccines: Avoid receiving live vaccines while on eribulin, as your immune system may not respond properly. Talk to your doctor before getting any vaccines.
- Grapefruit: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking eribulin, as they may affect how the drug is metabolized in your body.
Regular Monitoring
During treatment with eribulin, your healthcare provider will monitor your progress through regular blood tests to check for side effects, including blood counts (white cells, red cells, platelets), liver function, and kidney function. You may also need heart function tests if you are at risk of heart issues.
When to Contact Your Doctor
You should contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Fever, chills, or other signs of infection
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats
- New or worsening numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands or feet
- Unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing)
Disclaimer:
This handout is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding treatment and care. For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.