Side Effect

(When taken alone)

Management

Feeling tired or lack of energy 

• Eat well and get enough sleep. 
• Prioritize tasks to ensure you make the best use of your energy.
• Do not drive or operate machinery if you are feeling tired.  
• Inform your doctor if your energy level does not improve or worsens. 
• Simple exercise such as walking can help to boost your energy. 
• Avoid alcohol as this may cause you to feel more tired and drowsy. 

Mild joint or muscle ache or pain in the arms or legs

• Mild pain can be relieved by taking Paracetamol. 
  • Do not take Paracetamol if you are having a fever at the same time. 
• Inform your doctor if the pain is not relieved. 
• Taking regular warm baths may help.

Skin rash 

• Use mild or hypoallergenic soap and unscented detergent. 
• Avoid hot showers. Use cool or lukewarm water to bathe. 
• Apply a moisturizer frequently. 
• Avoid too much exposure to the sun. Use sunscreen with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and covered clothing when you are out in the sun. 
• Inform your doctor if rashes are worsening, cover large areas of the body or are associated with skin peeling.

Heart problems 

• Proceed to the A&E department immediately if you experience signs of heart problems such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or fast heartbeat.

Seizures

• Proceed to the A&E department immediately if you experience seizures.

Liver Problems

• Proceed to the A&E department immediately if you experience any: 
  • Dark or tea-coloured urine 
  • Pale or light-coloured stools 
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes  
  • Nausea, vomiting with loss of appetite 
  • Severe stomach pain

Drug Allergy

Symptoms may include:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

• If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Side Effect

(When given with Docetaxel)

Management

Weight gain 

• Keep a healthy and balanced diet to maintain your weight.
• Inform your doctor if there is swelling in the legs which bothers you.

Increase in blood pressure

• Your blood pressure will be taken when you come to the clinic.   
• If you have a blood pressure monitoring machine at home, measure your blood pressure at the same time(s) every day and record it in a book.  
• Inform your doctor if you notice an increasing trend of your blood pressure.
• Remember to take your prescribed medicines for high blood pressure regularly.

Increase in blood sugar levels 

• Your doctor may monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently and prescribe medications to control your blood sugar if required. 
• Consult your healthcare professional immediately if you have any symptoms of high blood sugar: 
  • Always feeling thirsty and hungry  
  • Passing more urine and/or more frequently than usual 
  • Sudden weight loss 
  • Fruity breath 
  • Confusion 

Exercise

Light exercise is recommended as it helps to improve mobility, balance, and even emotional well-being. Avoid strenuous exercise, and rest when you are feeling tired.

Adequate hydration

Maintain adequate hydration with 2 to 3 litres of fluids per day unless you have been informed by your doctor to restrict fluids. This will decrease your chances of getting constipation and prevent dehydration.

Medical and dental treatment

If you need to go to the hospital for any reason other than cancer, always inform the doctors and nurses that you are receiving anti-cancer treatment.

Talk to your cancer doctor if you think you need dental treatment. Always inform your dentist that you are receiving anti-cancer treatment.

Seek support if you feel overwhelmed

It is normal to feel fearful or worried about your condition. 

Do not be afraid to talk about your concerns with your healthcare team or loved ones. 

There may be resources and support available to help you.