Erbitux and Alcohol Interaction
Erbitux and Alcohol
Erbitux generic name cetuximab is a cancer drug that works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells in the body and stops them from spreading and is used to treat cancers of the colon and rectum. It is often used with other medications and while undergoing radiation treatment.
It is suggested that you do not consume alcohol while using this drug as the side effects may be greatly increased.
At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.
If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.
If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.
Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.
Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.
When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.
Be aware while using the drug you may become ultra sensitive to sun light.
Before starting to use Erbitux advise your physician if you have heart rhythm problems, lung disease or breathing disorder, congestive heart failure or coronary artery disease.
Side Effects
Less serious side effects are dry, cracked or swollen skin, changes in fingernails or toenails, headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, trouble swallowing, cough or sore throat, weight loss or weakness. If these occur call your physician for advice.
Serious side effects are acne like or severe skin rash,, slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, slow breathing, chest pain, heavy feeling, pain in arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling, fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, bruising or bleeding, changes in urination pattern, hot dry skin with weakness or dizziness, confusion, white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips. If these occur get emergency medical help.
This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.
Erbitux and alcohol Erbitux and alcohol
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