When the drugs are used this way, it is hoped they will have fewer side effects and be more effective. One liposomal drug is called Doxil, and the other is called DaunoXome. In a recent study comparing DaunoXome to standard combination chemotherapy, people taking DaunoXome responded better. Doxil is now approved for the treatment of advanced KS in people that have not responded to standard combination chemotherapy. It is also recommended if people can't take standard chemotherapy because of side effects.
Chemotherapy drugs can have many side effects.
They can damage your heart, and also affect your bone marrow. Your bone marrow makes white blood cells. When you lose white blood cells, you are more likely to get bacterial infections. There are treatments to help make more white blood cells. If you're getting chemotherapy, your doctor will watch for symptoms that need treatment.