Two immunotherapy-related drugs, interleukin-2 and lymphokineV-activated killer cells, have caused severe respiratory distress. Some patients have even required intubation.
Other less serious side effects of this type of treatment include:
cough
Breathing problems
Vision changes
Medications that cause general breathing problems/lung problems
Fortunately, many people never need to take chemotherapy or immunotherapy drugs. However, more common medications can cause respiratory problems or lung problems. These include both over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen can affect your lungs' ability to fight oxidative stress. This stress on your lungs can increase your chances of developing asthma or make it worse if you already have it. Overall, this medication can make it harder to breathe and function normally.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs, include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, which can cause NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease. Symptoms of this disease include moderate or severe asthma or persistent sinus problems. For people with asthma, NSAIDs can make it harder to breathe instead of helping relieve asthma symptoms.
