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Oral Antineoplastic Chemotherapy
Author(s) -
Gilbar Peter J,
Carrington Christine V
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
journal of pharmacy practice and research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.222
H-Index - 22
eISSN - 2055-2335
pISSN - 1445-937X
DOI - 10.1002/j.2055-2335.2005.tb00337.x
Subject(s) - medicine , concordance , antineoplastic drugs , intensive care medicine , medical emergency , pharmacology
Although most cancer medicines are administered parenterally, there has been an increase in the availability of oral antineoplastics. Oral antineoplastics offer several advantages, including ease of administration, convenience and cost savings. Disadvantages may include reduced patient supervision, concordance issues, inappropriate patient selection and unpredictable bioavailability. A number of safety issues, including storage and prevention of medication errors, must also be addressed. Safe handling techniques must be optimised to minimise occupational exposure. Pharmacists are in an ideal position to educate patients/carers to ensure concordance to therapy and guarantee the safe and effective use of oral antineoplastics.