Guidelines for Taking Oral Anticancer Medications at Home
Guidelines for Taking Oral Anticancer Medications at Home
There are many types of oral anticancer medications, including chemotherapy drugs, hormone therapies, and targeted therapies. Most of these medicines come in the form of tablets or capsules. When taking them at home, please follow the guidance below carefully:
Always take your medication exactly as prescribed — at the right time and in the correct dose.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after touching the medicine.
• You may handle the pills directly, or you can pour them into the bottle cap or a small cup.
• Do not place the tablets or capsules directly on countertops or other surfaces.
• Swallow the tablet or capsule whole, unless your doctor gives you other specific instructions.
• Do not chew, crush, break, or cut the pills.
• Do not dissolve the medicine in any liquid.
• When handling the medication, keep your hands away from your face and eyes.
• Store the medication in its original container, in a safe and dry place.
Your vomit, urine, or stool may contain traces of anticancer drugs. You and your family should take precautions when cleaning up bodily fluids:
• Wear disposable gloves to protect your skin.
• Flush used tissues down the toilet, or place them in a plastic bag and throw them away.
• Wash any containers used for bodily fluids thoroughly with soap and water.
• If clothes, towels, or bed linens are soiled, wash them separately from other laundry.
• Clean any exposed skin with soap, water, and paper towels.
Safe Storage of Oral Anticancer Medications
• Always follow the storage instructions on the medication label.
• Do not store medicines in hot, humid areas or in direct sunlight.
• Keep medicines separate from other drugs, and always out of reach of children and pets.
• If you carry your medication in a backpack, briefcase, or purse, keep the bottle inside a sealed plastic bag.
• Do not mix different medicines in the same container.
Proper Disposal of Unused Medication
• Do not throw away anticancer medications in the household trash or flush them down the toilet.
• Return any unused or expired medications to your hospital pharmacy.
The pharmacist will ensure they are disposed of safely following proper medical waste protocols.
