Doxil Overdose

People who are given too much Doxil (liposomal doxorubicin) may develop problems such as low blood counts or severe sores in the mouth or digestive tract. It is unlikely (though not impossible) for a person to overdose on this medication, as it is given by a healthcare provider. If an overdose occurs, treatment could involve antibiotics, platelet infusions, or other methods of treating any symptoms that arise.

Doxil Chemotherapy Information

Can You Take Too Much Doxil?

Doxil^® (liposomal doxorubicin) is a prescription chemotherapy medication that is given by IV. As with most medications, it is probably possible to take too much Doxil. The specific effects of an overdose will likely vary, depending on a number of factors, including the Doxil dosage and whether it was taken with any other medications or substances.

Effects of an Overdose

In the short term, an overdose of Doxil can cause severe mouth sores, low blood platelets, and low white blood cells. In the long term, an overdose might increase the risk of heart problems (such as heart failure) that can sometimes occur with Doxil, since these problems are generally related to the cumulative lifetime dosage of Doxil.

Treatment for a Doxil Overdose

The treatment for a Doxil overdose consists largely of treating any symptoms that arise. For instance, platelet infusions may be given to people with dangerously low blood platelets, and antibiotics may be given to people with very low white blood cells, since these people are at a high risk for dangerous infections.