Vidaza – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com
Monday, September 24, 2018 by Zoey Sky
http://www.naturalpedia.com/vidaza-uses-health-risks-and-side-effects-at-naturalpedia-com.html
Vidaza is an anti-cancer medication used to treat myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). MDS refers to a group of conditions where a patient’s bone marrow produces blood cells that are misshapen and are unable to produce enough healthy blood cells.
Vidaza belongs to a class of drugs called demethylation agents and it works by helping the bone marrow produce normal blood cells. The drug also helps kill abnormal cells in the bone marrow.
Vidaza’s generic name is azacitidine.
Known health risks or side effects of Vidaza
Vidaza may cause common side effects such as:
- Bruising, chills, fever, or other signs of low blood cell count
- Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
- Low potassium
- Redness or other signs of irritation at the drug injection site
- Weakness
You may need emergency medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as:
- Bleeding gums
- Chest pain
- A cough
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Fast heartbeat
- Hives
- Itching
- Nosebleeds
- Pale skin
- Rash
- Shortness of breath
- Signs of infection (e.g., chills, a fever, a sore throat, etc.)
- Small red or purple dots on the skin
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
List of organs that might be affected by Vidaza
An overdose of Vidaza may include symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
The drug can also cause complications like an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergy to Vidaza may include difficulty breathing; hives; or the swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Vidaza
If you have MDS, follow a healthy diet instead of taking medication like Vidaza, which may have negative side effects.
Proper nutrition and avoiding unhealthy/overly-rich foods can help improve your overall health and the production of new blood cells by your bone marrow. Proper food handling and preparation are also crucial factors to consider.
Maintain a healthy weight if you have MDS. Your body mass index (BMI) must be between 19 to 25. If you don’t know your BMI, check it here.
Make sure your diet includes a lot of fresh foods and little to no processed foods. Consume a lot of fruits, legumes, vegetables, and whole grains. These food are often full of energy, fiber, protein, minerals, and vitamins. To meet your nutrient needs, consume plant-based foods and eat fruits and vegetables of different colors.
Eat at least five portions, or 14 to 21 ounces, of non-starchy vegetables and fruits every day. Consume (relatively) unprocessed grains and legumes with each meal.
Stay hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water daily. Avoid caffeinated drinks with diuretic qualities which can subtract from your daily fluid intake. Avoid sugary drinks like fruit juices and sodas as well.
Treatment and management options for the side effects of Vidaza
The following treatments and management options can help prevent the side effects associated with Vidaza, like nausea:
- Broths – Chicken broth and chicken soup may be easier to tolerate if you’re nauseous. Broths can help you stay hydrated, especially if you don’t feel like eating solid food. Make homemade soup or broth with chicken or vegetables so your body can replenish any lost calories, minerals, protein, and vitamins so you can feel energized.
- Ginger – Ginger has bioactive compounds, like gingerol, paradol, and shogaol, that can help soothe the symptoms of nausea. Consume crystallized ginger, ginger ale or beer, ginger biscuits, or tea if you’re feeling nauseous. You can also take ginger in capsule form.
- Noodles, potatoes, and rice – Starchy, plain foods like noodles, potatoes, and rice can help settle your stomach if you’re nauseous. Unlike richly-flavored dishes, these bland foods are more easily tolerated. Eat boiled noodles plain, or add a light broth or sauce to boost your fluid intake. Eat baked, boiled, mashed, or steamed potatoes with some butter or milk for a calorie boost. Boil or steam plain rice, which can be eaten cold with light seasoning if you can’t stomach hot foods.
- Water and clear beverages – If you’re nauseous, stay hydrated by drinking water. Hydration is important, especially if you’ve been vomiting or if you’re feverish. You can also drink clear juices and coconut water to replace lost electrolytes.
Where to learn more
Summary
Vidaza is an anti-cancer medication used to treat myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).
Vidaza may cause common side effects such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
An overdose of Vidaza may include symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. The drug can also cause complications like an allergic reaction.
If you have MDS, follow a healthy diet instead of taking medication like Vidaza, which may have negative side effects.
Broths, ginger, noodles, potatoes, rice, and water/clear beverages can help prevent the side effects associated with Vidaza, like nausea.
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