Taxotere, Carboplatin and Herceptin
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I had a cold during my 5th chemo. As long as your white cells are okay it should be alright. Do you get Neupogen or Neulasta to help produce white cells?
The other thing is that the cold can make it extra hard to stay hydrated. I probably would have been okay with that on my earlier chemo cycles but at the end I've found it harder to drink enough as I had more nausea on my 5th and 6th cycles. Nausea plus icky throat from the cold overwhelmed my ability to force down liquids and I had to go in to get IV saline to get hydrated. If you can force fluids down, then do but if you can't don't hesitate to ask for help with an IV.
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bluedasher, thanks. I got Neulasta for the blood cells. Do they have different side effects? I am definitely trying to stay hydrated. I go back on Friday for labs/Herceptin so I'll talk to them about hydration if the cold if it's still lingering. So far I'm ok with liquids. I did notice that OJ tastes a little strange to me today (and I know it's not the OJ because I just made it). H2O is fine so I'll keep drinking that & green tea. Hopefully it'll run it's course by Friday. :::fingers crossed:::0
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Cupcake: I am going to miss you soooooo much! You have been the voice of reason, love, kindness and humor. Your battle has inspired me to stand up straight and move on. I wish happiness and long, cancer free life. May God continue to bless you. When I make it to the wine country, I will be sure and find you. Thanks for so much you have done for me and all the others in this camp. Okay, now I'm crying.
my2boys: Number 6 has been a doozy. I am ending day 9 and the fatigue is getting better, but the digestive upset has been a bear. I am guzzling gatorade because that is the only liquid that tastes good.
Kristine: Welcome. Sorry you have to be here, but these folks will take really good care of you. Feeling overwhelmed at this point is very normal.
On the head sores subject: Very common and nothing to worry about. Just don't pick them like I did, that makes them hurt worse. A little antibiotic ointment dabbed on will take care of them. I only got them on tx's 1 and 2.
Campers, keep your heads held high and move forward, one day at a time.
Lisa
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Cupcake: I am so glad you are ready to move on, but will miss you terribly. Thanks for all you have done--your warm and cheering advice. Your encouragement and grace have been an inspiration. Thanks for launching me--and many others-- well on this journey. And, it looks like you are launching yourself well into the next stage in your life. May you be blessed with joy and health and I hope you always get the kind of support and guidance you have offered here. Will try hard to carry on in your tradition here, but I suspect it won't be quite with your style.
Welcome to all of you who are newer here than me. I (and duneoaks) are off to Tx2 tomorrow.
M.E.
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Hi Sisters: Last night I was on a thread here and come across some scary info. Did you all know that toxotere can cause permanent hair loss. Gulp. That is so depressing. The tread is angry that they do not warn us of this.YIKEES. I pray that we all get full heads of hair and that we can put this behind us.
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Bold: I don't know if you took the time to read the entire thread, but it really quite out of control.. The woman that started the post is a very unfortunate victim of something that almost NEVER happens and she is very bitter about it. She wants to convince us all that we will be in the same boat and we know that is just not true. Bold, you will be fine, so will I and every one else on this thread. It is very sad that this woman has been the 1 in 100,000 that this happens to.
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Cupcake7: Thank you for all the support you've given me while you participated. All I can say is "get out there" and live your life. I fully understand your decision to leave the boards for a while. One can't let cancer take over your life or you're not really living "in the now". As a person who has had many recurrences, I've learned to enjoy a normal life when I'm not in treatment - that includes taking a break from this forum. I'm even "livin' it up", when I have good days during treatment. We'll miss you. Get strong and stay well!
Bold: Keep in mind that everyone deals differently with the "knocks" that cancer gives you. Anger can be a strong emotion that can upset many. It's unfortunate when this happens as someone else on a different thread is now leaving because of something someone said to her. We'll be losing a wonderful person on these boards as a result. I find I'm very discriminating about what posts I'll open and where I go on these boards.
Thanks everyone for your well-wishes regarding the "cut off" of my Herceptin. When I saw my onc yesterday, it turns out that the government is also questioning my Abraxane and Carboplatin. This is NOT normal behaviour for the government. However, with the recession and "cost cutting", the government is now taking a second look at paying for expensive chemo drugs. My hope is that this will "blow over" when the media gets wind of it. In the meantime, I don't plan to be the scapegoat. My onc says "keep getting chemo", because if I stop now (as was planned), I probably won't be reinstated. Advocacy is my "strong suit" and I refused to "die" because my drugs have been "cut off".
On a happy note, I had my 6th tx yesterday and I have NO NAUSEA!! NONE!! This is major coming from a person who had the covers over her head because my husband was cooking in the kitchen. l was on 3 drugs! I did push for EMEND (had to fight for it) and, ironically, my insurance covered 80% of the fee so I only paid $30. Even if I had to pay full price, so far it's worth EVERY PENNY! I already have my script for my next treatment. How nice it is to walk into my kitchen and say "what should I eat for lunch", rather than "lunch? I can't even tolerate soup!".
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Mary Ellen: Hope your treatment went as well as mine. All of my blood work was good and I got an A+ on my MUGA scan. Start to finish was about 5 hours today--blood work, saw the Dr. and the TX--it really went by fast today--having a computer really helps--I didn't even get to my movie--maybe this afternoon.
I do have folliculitis, but it is not bad. The onc just said to keep the head really clean and let it air out--so I'm scaring my husband and dog with my bald head. I ask the nurse about permanent hair loss with Taxotere, and she said that she had heard nothing about it. Also I asked my onc about another year of herceptin. He said they were doing trials now and maybe in a year they may have more info. Have a great day.
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Lisa - I hope you are doing better today. I'm still dragging....this #6 is a doosy! I'm with you on the Gatorade, dear. I finished my second bottle in two days. Let's keep a happy thought about tomorrow. I need to feel better fast....ugh!
Helen and Bold - A few months ago I saw that thread about the hair loss. It scared me too, but I quickly spoke with my doctor who reassured me that there can be many reasons for permanent hair loss and it has been her experience that all of her patients who've had taxotere had their hair grow back when they were done. Coincidentally, our own Cupcake posted a picture of her hair regrowth right around that time! I decided that I had to trust my doctor on this one. I said a silent prayer for the woman in the thread and moved on.
Cheryl - I'm glad that things might be looking better for you regarding the herceptin. The fight for the chemo drugs is bad news, but like you said, perhaps this will blow over. I agree with you 100% about the Emend. Remember....Emend is your friend, right? I'm glad that you are faring well with this chemo.....HOORAY for you!
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I'm moving closer to the 1st treatment (Fri). I had the port placed today. So far, so good. I did feel very loopy after the surgery and they moved me out of there pretty quick. Took a nap when I got home and I woke feeling like someone punched me in the neck. But it was nothing a little Tylenol couldn't fix.
I am hearing about 50/50 regarding Emend vs Ativan. Is one harder to get prescribed-Mason, you mentioned you had to beg for it...I meet with the onco tomorrow. Will he ask me which I prefer? I did hear that Ativan helps the sleeping issue. Does Emend do the same? Sleep is a big issue with me-too many sleepless nights as of late!
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Magnola: I use Ativan for anxiety. I take it before an MRI and when I have surgery. Some people take it prior to chemo to help with nerves. It works really well to "take the edge off". Kinda makes you not care what they do to you. It's been a lifesaver for me. My guess is that nausea relief is a bonus you get with this drug. Unfortunately, it's mild nausea relief and it doesn't even touch my nausea. Too much of it will make you really "druggy". I had an MRI at 7 a.m. once and took Ativan. I was hosting Thanksgiving dinner that evening and I remember being really "stoned". One of my guests had to help me find dishes, and serve the food. I can tell you that it was the most stress-free thanksgiving I've had.
Unfortunately, I couldn't remember much the next day and my friend had to "enlighten" me. After that, I only take 1/4 to 1/2 a pill!As for Emend, my pharmacist told me its the strongest anti-nausea med available to me at this time. As a Zofran user for many years (that doesn't sound good, does it), I find that Zofran keeps me from vomiting but that's about it. I lie in bed looking like death warmed over I'm so consumed by nausea. This is my 2nd day on Emend and, I feel like it's a miracle. I could go outside if I wanted to, I can eat again! I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop but my appetite is normal and I like to think I'm building up strength for the "crash" to come on the weekend. The side effect literature for Emend noted sleepiness....I've been dropping off about 8 p.m., maybe that's why???
My choice, Emend 100% if you can get it!!! If you can take Emend in the morning and Ativan at night, you'll have no nausea and you'll sleep like a baby. Wow, what a glorious mental picture!
Cheryl.
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I am trying the acupuncture for the hot flashes (my most annoying side effect) next Wed. On Monday I see the lymph physical therapist and will ask her about the acupuncture needles in the arm, as Emmy suggested. My onc said they put the needles in the ear for hot flashes. We will see. Tonite on Lifetime, they are rerunning "Living Proof" at 9pm. It is truly our miracle drug.0
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whoops:Those of you that know me know that I am not a angry person. I meant no harm just ran across something I found interesting. I went to there website and found that 2% have permanent hair loss. Not bad odds. I am grateful for the opportunity for a long life. However I do need to say that I read things with an open mind. I have my masters in medicine and minor in psychology so I can spot victims and it is sad. And it would be even more sad if it happen to me. LOL
In regards to the herceptin for longer than a year I have been told by 2 different onc. that the results would be in 6 months.These results have to do with insurance companies and findings coming together However that being said this is only the information I have found. I am not taking personal responsibility for its outcome.
I am an information hound. So forgive me.
I have beautiful red blotches all over my face. And still feel like poop. I have 2 parties to go to this weekend. One for the Academy Awards (formal) and one for DH BF 40th with a band and valet caterers the whole nine yards. I just have to get better. I want to PARTY my wig off.( I hopa hopa)
The sun is shining again in L.A. And the red carpet is at the ready.kbell thanks for the heads-up I want to see that movie.
Ativan is a friend of mine.
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Duneoaks: I had a good day today, but 2 hours longer than expected because they were so backed up from effects of the Monday holiday. I took a friend with me, so we chatted a lot, I did some e-mail, and then I napped while she worked. No nausea,thus far.
Magnola: I get decadron, Emend, Ativan, Aloxi (in my IV) and wear sea-bands. I don't personally like Ativan, so am going to wean off it sooner this time. Since the Emend is so great and the Aloxi is so long-lasting, the Ativan may not be necessary. I can always start it up if I need it. Our bodies and reactions have so many reactions in common and are also so different from one another! I have had valium prescribed before some tests. It does the trick for me with the anxiety, but is not an anti-nausea drug.
kjbell: My surgeon and acupucturist agree on no needles in arm where lymph nodes were removed.
bold: you have several more days to gear up. hope you get to party on.
Tomorrow I get IV fluids for hydration.
Pixie haircut only lasted a few days. Hair is falling out rapidly now. I think tomorrow is buzzing day--and it is, for sure, wig, hat, or scarf day in public. Onward.
M.E.
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Hello all! Its been a rough few days for me. Fatigued really bad and my mouth is on fire. I was able to ward off mouth sores...but my tongue looks like something out of a horror show. Just hoping and waiting for it to heal. It feels like when you have scalded it with a hot cup of water....any suggestions? I have been rinsing my mouth with malox and benadryl along with my daily biotene mouthwash. I have my next herceptine appt tomorrow, will ask my onc for any help as well. Also, the headaches...anything else besides tylenol or motrin?? It wakes me up in the middle of the night.
As far as the side effect of herceptin...has anyone ever listened to the prescription drug commercial side effects??? We just have to hang on and hope for the best!
Cupcake: I am happy to see you move forward....I will miss reading your kind words and praises. You have a beautiful heart...I wish all the happiness!!
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Hi All,
Had my last TCH treatment yesterday, hurray!! Will still have to have Herceptin once a week for the next three weeks and then once every three weeks for the next year, but that will be a piece of cake. The good news no more TC, no more steroids after tomorrow and no more neupogen shots after next week. PROGRESS!! I'm sure I will be down and out for a while after the steroid crash begins to hit on Friday, but everything seems more manageable knowing this is the last time to go through all of the immediate side effects. I'm sure it will take more time for the long standing side effects to wear off.
Have my mastectomy scheduled for 3/13, and the surgeon and oncologist have indicated that there has been a dramatic reduction in the size of the tumors, so it seems that all the pain and suffering of the chemo has been worth it. Have a consult with a plastic surgeon next week, however my oncologist is not a fan of immediate reconstructions so looks like that will be postponed until after surgery and radiation are completed.
This has been a long road, with further to go, but at least I have started to see progress.
My best to all the campers. Cupcake you will be dearly missed!
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Cali: Woo Whoo!! Isn't it a wonderful feeling!!!! Just remember to lay low thru this last round of side effects. It is hard (was for me) because you just want to move on with life. Just remember, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
my2boys: As of yesterday I am starting to feel human again. I think I need to buy stock in Gatorade! Today I am off from work, so I pan to slowly start gettingmy lifeback in order. The pharmacy that is taking up my entire night stand needs to move on and I have a stack of medical bills and insurance notices that need my attention - UGGG! But his morning, I am off to have breakfast with a girlfriend. What a nice feeling.
Bold: Oh my Gosh!!!! The Academy Awards!!! I have a friend that is there some where right now. I am so envious! Can we get stories?????? You sound like a very talented make-up artist, so I am sure you will be able to cover the red face - must be a steriod reaction - a be beautiful for tommorrow night. Go out and kick up your heels and have a great time!
To everyone else, have a great day!
Lisa
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Smile: My nurses told me to rinse my mouth with baking soda 4 to TEN times per day! When I mentioned Biotene, they said do that too, but still do the baking soda rinses. So far, so good--but of course, it's only been one week since chemo #1. I keep a cup of baking soda water in my bathroom and every time I go in there, I rinse. And after I eat anything.
I'm still tired each day, but nothing like the bone achiness I had 3 days after chemo. I think I'm just not going to plan to do anything the week after chemo.
I went to a BC support grp meeting at my hospital and so many of them are doing radiation, which they say is a snap compared to chemo. My drs haven't mentioned radiation--maybe saving the 'surprise' for later? Do they just do chemo when you have node involvement?
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My understanding and hope is that if you have a mastectomy and chemo, you do not have to have radiation--unless something shows up later. I was told that if I had a lumpectomy I would have chemo and radiation. Still on the steroid high from yesterday, but feeling ok. Glad I can take it easy today.
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Denali: You have a similar dx as me. exept your pr+. I a definitely having rads and my guess you are too. I had a lumpectomy did you have a mas or lump? I think tht has a lot to dowith it to. I want to get rads. I want no stone left unturned. Get they behind me cancer.
CALI: YIPPIEE WOOWHO! Sound so good. Congrats. Chemo is not for is not for pussys and you have done it.
Smile: My onc gave me a prescription just in case I got sores. Chlorhexidine gluconate0.12%. I have not had to use it . I use salt and baking soda as needed. I wish they could do something about the horrible taste but that is just another gift from chemo.
Lisa: I am not going to the awards but one of the parties during and after. There will be stars there. I will give you the dirt on Monday. I hope I have the energy for the evening but it is 13 days post tx. So bring it on.
Feeling human again today still blotchy but the coffee is tasting better.
Hope everyones day is filled with positive happy thoughts laughter and grace.
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I had a mastectomy. I'm going in for my Herceptin today and seeing the oncologist. I'll ask her about radiation.
Do you all find the steroid highs to be horrible? I do. I talk a mile a minute and act like i'm on speed.
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Oh yeah, my house is spotless. and I talk a million miles an hour and louder than normal. I have a hard time sleeping and I feel jittery inside. I hate it. Not to mention the water retention. My right leg swells. and on and on. Hang in there. Someday this will be a memory.
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Hello Ladies.
Cali - Congratulations! You're done with TCH....HOORAY for you! Hang in there, your surgery will be over before you know it. I'm glad that you're seeing progress.
Lisa - I'm starting to feel slightly better today. Still a long way to go, but definitely an improvement. I'm glad that you are doing better too.
Denali - I don't need radiation either. I was told that if I chose to have a mastectomy, that I didn't need it. If I chose to have the lumpectomy instead of mastectomy, I would have needed it.
Have a lovely day.
Anne
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I am so gald to see your post. I am using you as a guide to what I have in store
The chemo isn't worrying me as much as your cleaning!Karen
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Shows you how new I am to this my post was for Denali
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I had a mastectomy and I am having rads. They determine the radiation on many factors, margin, size, stage, location etc. Every one is different. I have learned that you can line up 10 women with breast cancer and each treatment plan will be different. There are so many variables.
Cali Congratulations on finishing chemo!! I know you are excited. It is such a good feeling when you know you are finished with that horrible cycle.
Traci
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Had my Herceptin treatment today.....walked in and the nurse immediately knew that I was not feeling too good. It seems that I have an upper resperatory infection. That is why I am feeling sooo bad. They called me in an antibiotic...so hopefully by this weekend I will be much better. All I know is that I am really tired of being sick and tired. My mouth is getting better...slowly, but I will definately rinse my mouth more times next tx treatment.
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For those of you who began chemo around Feb 12th as I did, I just returned from my Herceptin and it's a breeze. Nurse said I should have NO side effects and I feel fine. Saw the dr today and asked about the tremendous high I was on after the Decadron (steroids). She said I could take only 1 pill instead of the prescribed 2. Hurrah!! I mean I want a clean house, but not THAT clean. I just didn't care for the high at all.
I asked about radiation and she said it'll be recommended if 1) tumor was larger than 5cm, 2) node involvement, 3) clear margins on the tumor. For me it's negative for 1 & 2, don't know about #3. I didn't think margins mattered since I had a mastectomy.
Had to see my Primary dr today too and she wants me to spend the night at the sleep clinic to see if I have sleep apnea. sigh. If it ain't one thing, it's another, huh? Wished they'd let my sleeping buddies (2 German Shepherds) come too. They're going to miss me.
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Evening all:
BOLD: My friend has been chosen by her compnay 3 years in a row to work one of the hospitality stations for the stars (GM Collin skin care). She always has some great stories. Have a great time.
Denali: Like my2boys and Traci said - it depends on a lot of factors. I had 2/17 nodes positive and I had a mastectomy. I will have no radiation. For me, I preferred the mastectomy over the radiation and that was my choice.
Hope everyone else is doing well this evening.
Lisa
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I had tx4 yesterday and had gained five pounds since last treatment. Onc gave me prescription for lasix and told me to only take it one or two days in a row when I really need it. However, I forgot to ask him if it's okay to take in the first few days after treatment. I know it's important to drink a lot of water then and wondered if the lasix might cause problems. I'm really tempted to take it today since I weigh a couple pounds more than yesterday. Has anyone had experience with this?
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