Types of Chemotherapy for Secondary Breast Cancer: Eribulin Mesylate

Next in our series covering different types of chemotherapy is Eribulin Mesylate.

What is Eribulin Mesylate?

Eribulin Mesylate, also known by the brand name Halaven, is a chemotherapy drug. It is used to treat advanced breast cancer, usually in people who have already had at least one other course of chemotherapy.

Eribulin works by stopping the cancer cells from separating into 2 new cells and so blocks the growth of the cancer.

How do you take it?

Eribulin Mesylate is given intravenously into the vein in hospital as a drip into the hand or arm.  The exact dosage and schedule depends on many factors, including height and weight, general health or other health problems, and the type of cancer.

What are the possible side effects?

• Increased risk of getting an infection - due to a decrease in white blood cells. You should seek medical advice urgently if you think you have an infection.
• Breathlessness
• Loss of appetite
• Numbness or tingling in fingers and toes
• Headaches
• Breathlessness and cough
• Feeling or being sick - this is usually well managed with anti sickness medication.
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Hair loss
• Pain in different parts of your body
• Fatigue
• High temperature (fever)
• Weight loss

Please always speak to your medical team if you experience any of these side effects.
 

What are the possible side effects?

• Increased risk of infection
• Bruising / bleeding gums or nosebleeds
• Breathlessness and looking pale
• Feeling or being sick
• Hair loss
• Red or pink urine
• Sore mouth
• Eye problems
• Diarrhoea
• Liver changes
• Hot flushes
• High temperature (fever)
• Skin changes

If you experience any of these side effects, please discuss with your medical team.