Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with treatment relying heavily on a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. While these modalities have improved survival and prognosis for many kinds of cancers, they may have unwanted side effects that not only increase patient suffering but may also hinder compliance. In this webinar, four common treatment-related side effects are reviewed:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Oral mucositis and proctitis
• Dermatologic changes, including acneiform rash, radiation dermatitis and paronychia
• Neuropathic pain.

The pathophysiology behind these conditions and the available treatment options will be discussed with special consideration for customized pharmacotherapeutics. Several extemporaneous formulations will be highlighted in this webinar:

• ABHR (lorazepam, diphenhydramine, haloperidol, metoclopramide)
• Transdermal gel or suppository for nausea and vomiting
• Benzydamine and morphine mouthwashes for oral mucositis
• Sucralfate enema and formalin 10% solution for proctitis
• Ivermectin lotion for acneiform rash
• Heparinoid cream for radiation dermatitis
• BAK (baclofen, amitriptyline, ketamine) cream for neuropathic pain

Lastly, consideration will be made for the role oncology pharmacists can play in optimizing treatment regimens or offering support for cancer patients.