Oral antineoplastic chemotherapy

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