FEC-T chemotherapy is the name given for drugs used in the treatment of breast cancer. These drugs are used in combination and comprise of fluorouracil, epirubicin, cyclophosphamide, and docetaxel (commonly called Taxotere). These drugs are administered in two steps. First, a combination of fluorouracil, epirubicin and cyclophosphamide are given to the patient for the first few cycles and then the doctors start the dosage of docetaxel.

Usage of FEC-T Chemotherapy

FEC-T drugs re given to patients when their cancer can be operated upon, that is in the early stage of breast cancer. At this stage, the main aim of the doctors is to relieve a patient of this deadly disease. Before starting with the FEC-T chemotherapy, the doctors might ask you to have a blood test. This test can be done either a few days prior or on the day your doctor plans to start your treatment. If your blood reports are normal, then your oncologist will go ahead with the treatment.

The first cycle of drugs are usually administered through a cannula (a small fine tube), which is inserted into your arm or hand. These drugs can also be given through a catheter inserted into a vein near the collar bone. This is called the central lines (or skin-tunneled venous catheters). These catheters are usually given to the patients who do not prefer to have themselves pricked by needles or if the doctors are unable to find a nerve on the wrist or the arm of the patient. You can ask your doctor about it for more information.

Fluorouracil and epirubicin are injected into the saline drip onto the cannula that has been inserted into your body. Cyclophosphamide can either be given along with the drip or can be directly be inserted into your cannula. Docetaxel is usually given through infusion.

In order to abate the side effects of chemotherapy (that might include fluid retention and nausea), the doctors might prescribe you some medicines or steroids. You will be asked to take these medicines before and during the course of the treatment. You must take these medications as directed by your doctor. If you miss a dosage, inform your doctor about it and ask what to do. If you do not have any side effects initially, you might have them later on. These drugs help you to control these side effects to some extent.

The cannula of the day patients are usually removed before they leave. If the doctors place a central line or a PICC line, then it stays till the next chemotherapy cycle starts. Before you leave, make sure that your doctor also prescribes you medicines to prevent sickness.

Regimen for FEC-T Chemotherapy

The regimen (or the treatment plan) for curing a person with FEC-T drugs vary from one person to another. When your doctor asks you to start your chemotherapy treatment, ask about the regimen that will be followed for you. There are various cycles of chemotherapy treatment. Usually, the doctor will start by giving you the combination of FEC drugs on the first day of the treatment. After that you might have a break of about a week and no drugs will be given during that period. This is one cycle of chemotherapy. This cycle will be repeated for the two or three times.

After the FEC cycle, your doctor will start with the treatment of docetaxel. This drug is usually given in the form of infusion for about an hour. The cycle for this drug is similar to the FEC drugs. You will not be given any drugs for the next two or three weeks; the cycle is repeated twice or thrice.

Side Effects FEC-T Chemotherapy

The side effects of this chemotherapy drugs may vary from one person to another. Some patients undergoing this treatment have many side effects, whereas others might not have many side effects. However, a patient is not likely to have all the side effects that are mentioned below. Before you start your treatment, discuss them with your doctor and have your doubts clarified.

• Lowered resistance: These drugs tend to attack the cancerous cells and the healthy cells are also destroyed in the process. This leads to reduction in the number of white cells and a low immune system.
• Anemia: As the blood count decreases, a person tens to become anemic. This in turn leads to weakness and breathlessness in some people.
• Bruising and bleeding: If you notice any excessive bleeding from a small cut or from your nose or have rashes on your skin, then contact your doctor immediately.
• Nausea and vomiting: These side effects can be controlled by taking drugs that will be prescribed by your doctor.
• Hair loss: This is one of the most common side effects and is usually temporary. Once the treatment is over, your hair will begin to grow back.
• Other side effects: change in the taste, mouth ulcers and sore mouth, irritation of the bladder, diarrhea, and fluid retention.

There are other symptoms that are not common but can be noticed nevertheless. If you notice any of them, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. When you visit your doctor to discuss your chemotherapy regimen, make a list of questions that you intend to ask. (For more information, see chemotherapy questions) Your doctor is the best person to decide the treatment for breast cancer with FEC-T chemotherapy. So it is best to follow the advice given to you and take the medications as prescribed.