Duration of chemo drugs in patients system?

MZS14
MZS14 Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Caregivers #1
My mom has non-hodgkins lymphoma and is being treated with a myriad of chemo drugs whose names escape me except for retuxin. I have an 8 month old daughter and we visit my mom sometimes as soon as 7-9 days after her chemo treatments. I though I heard my mom say that her oncologist said it should be safe (no longer being excreted by any bodily fluids) by one week later. I am concerned that I have not found anything to give me accurate info regarding how long this is a danger to others and especially my daughter. Similarly, when these cytotoxic drugs are being excreted on to surfaces how long are they a danger once exposed to the environment in relation to secondary exposure?

Comments

  • onhold
    onhold Member Posts: 23
    #2
    duration of drugs
    By all means, call your mom's doctor and ask. Get a list of all the drugs (chemo and the other drugs to counter the chemo side effects) so you can be assured of everything. You do have valid concerns and your mother's doctors office should be able to give you the answers. I would be concerned about exposing such a young child to chemo; after all, they told us to avoid touching the actual drugs if the line should ever leak. It may be that after being metabolized the drugs are not harmful, but always better to know the facts.
    Good luck.
  • tmc576
    tmc576 Member Posts: 60 Member
    #3
    Most drugs
    Most drugs leave the body within 48 to 72 hrs, mostly through the urine, bowel, and any other body excretions(vomit, etc). Also through sweat. My mother lives with us, and I have 3 children so I know your concern. However, I think your baby should be safe to visit with your mom. The main area of concern is the bathroom, so if there is a second one to use I would. I know how my mom feels about my kids, and I'm sure your mom is treasuring this time with her granddaughter.

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