WHAT IS RED DEVIL CHEMO?

" The Power in the RED.”
Let’s walk side by side through this journey.
Dr. Rahul Singh, Medical Advisor, Oncologist

Why is it called Red Devil Chemo?

Doxorubicin, commonly known as the “Red Devil Chemo” drug is used in the treatment of many different cancers. It’s important to recognize particularly in Breast cancer it is highly effective.

It gets the name “Red Devil Chemo” because of the appearance of the bag.

It works by “poisoning” the DNA in our cells, particularly the cancer DNA and causing them to die. It can be administered weekly or every 3 weeks.

How does it work?

Red Devil Chemo works by “poisoning” the DNA in our cells, particularly the cancer DNA and causing them to die. It can be administered weekly or every 3 weeks.

It’s important to know this treatment is given intravenously and can be toxic to the veins. Because of this, it requires a mediport for infusion.
Generally, it is well tolerated during the infusion.

What are the side effects?

While receiving Red Devil Chemo treatment it is important to be cognizant of the side effects it may cause to your body.

The most common side effects are:

  1. Global drop in your blood counts (white/red blood cells and platelets)
  2. Loss of hair
  3. Nausea and Vomiting
  4. Can cause your urine to change color to orange/red
  5. Heart toxicity

What can my body tolerate?

This last one is the most critical as there is only a specific amount of this drug your body can tolerate, It’s very important that your heart function is monitored closely while on treatment.
This medication particularly when used in combination with others, in the setting before or after surgery is highly effective and can result in curing your breast cancer.

Knowing what the Red Devil Chemo drug can do to your body and how it kills the cancer is important to understanding and knowing what you may expect while on treatment. While it is a very scary thought to receive a medication like this, know that in the world of breast cancer it is one of the most potent treatments we have to kill it!

Knowledge is Power

Dr. Rahul Singh
Medical Advisor-Oncologist

"Remember knowledge is power, always stay informed and make sure to discuss with your oncologist prior to initiation of any treatment."

"If you are facing the red devil chemo, rise up, this isn't for the faint of heart, you are the warrior. I championed the red devil chemo in 2012, through my story I have inspired other women to look at the red devil chemo differently. It takes a real warrior to get through the red devil chemo. You can do this and we are here to support you. Come connect with me on Instagram"