Pluvicto Update

[bglendi53]

So I just completed my second treatment of Pluvicto on March 27th. I'm also taking Xtandi and of course the beloved Lupron.

I think it has been better tolerated than Docetaxel but the fatigue may be worse. Not sure if Pluvicto is to blame or the Xtandi. I am very weak and tire easily. I did walk a mile the other day but I was wiped out afterwords. Mild nausea, or it could be hunger pains, I just always feel empty. Legs are like jello, climbing stairs is difficult, just all round low energy and weakness. I've tried American Ginseng, didn't help.

I was an active guy but now I have little desire and less energy. But PSA dropped from 305 to 244, so I'm hoping that means at least something.

[Zengal79]

Just wanted to offer my support to you. I skimmed through your posts. You’ve been through so much! I hope others have some insight for you.

The cancer itself if an energy drainer, on top of the treatments. I know it’s hard to make yourself get motivated to move with the reduced energy.

You might consider asking for physical therapy. It helped my guy, and I think it would’ve been more helpful if he had it sooner. I think general weakness and difficulty with stairs would qualify you for it. Somehow it’s easier to get motivated when you have a ”coach.”

My very best wishes to you in this journey! Tough stuff.

[RyderLake2]

Hello, I suffer from many of the same problems you describe, although I am somewhat older (78). My main symptoms are fatigue, general weakness, rubbery legs and an inability to lift my body weight on my right leg. This makes climbing stairs difficult. I have to either use only my left leg to pull myself up the back stairs or, if using my right leg, hold the bannister in one hand and my cane in the other for support. In my case, my general weakness is probably brought on by peripheral neuropathy caused by a number of factors: A) Hereditary and persistent back trouble B) The continued use of Xtandi (over nine years) and Zytiga (six months). My testosterone level for the past ten years has been undetectable. and C) Back surgery. Because my spine was compressing the main nerve root, nine months ago I underwent a surgical laminectomy. To add to my woes, with my right foot I have a noticeable drop foot which will undoubtedly require an Ankle, Foot, Orthotic AFO brace in the near future.

I completely agree with Zengal's comments. A good physiotherapist and/or a personal trainer can do wonders for your mental health and improve your core strength. Exercise bikes, treadmills, and rowing machines all help. I think without the encouragement and support of my physio, wife, family and friends I would probably be in a wheelchair. Good luck with your battle. 😊

[Benkaymel]

I'm on Prostap (= Lupron) and Xtandi and lack stamina so tire easily. I also have general aches/pains in my back, side, legs, etc. The best thing to do is keep exercising. It's tough but will keep you stronger both physically and mentally even though it feels like the last thing you want to do. Lift weights, rowing machine, etc. and some cardio exercise like cycling or brisk walking are all good. Don't overdo it but you need to push a little beyond your comfort zone and you will reap benefits. Wishing you the best.

[Yank66]

Good news on the PSA decline. DH is also receiving Pluvicto and responding (after second treatment PSA dropped from 194 to 39), He has fatigue and had some mild nausea several times. But he took Xtandi along with Lupron for a year previously and it was much tougher than the Pluvicto.

My active guy turned into a couch potato and he had to push himself to do anything. He was miserable and PSA and scans showed it wasn’t effective. After stopping the Xtandi he regained some energy and drive. I can only imagine what doing the Pluvicto and Xtandi together would do to him. Hang in there. Hope you feel better when finished with Pluvicto. Wishing you the best.

[bglendi53 in reply to Yank66]

Thanks, I'm giving Xtandi most of the blame on this, but we'll see what my MO says in another month.

[Zengal79 in reply to bglendi53]

As a side. My Brian said Xtandi was the worst drug (side effect wise)that he took. Fatigue being the chief complaint.

[bglendi53 in reply to Zengal79]

I think her may be right. I've been on Erleada, Xofigo, Zitiga, and now Xtandi. Zytiga gave me great muscle and joint pain, so I hate that one too. I was hoping for better with Xtandi but I don't think it's going to happen.

[RCOG2000]

i have found exercising in the pool with 5 and ten pound weights very helpful. Water gives support and helps with balance so you don't fall.

[Daddyishealing in reply to RCOG2000]

This is a great answer and possible to do without the weights .it would be very good if you could get into a pool. At one time it was what helped my dad more than anything and held his pain and he wasn't exercising bc unfortunately that wasn't my dad but he surely loved food so I'm glad he enjoyed it while he could . Good luck

[j-o-h-n]

Thank goodness U.S, postage stamps are now self-adhesive, cause I don't think I have the strength to lick and stick 'em......

j-o-h-n <===<<< Senior management is about to spike my spikes....

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Thursday 04/13/2023 10:30 PM DST

[Hidden]

John, I just wanted to comment that I love your positive attitude! Certainly, “no woe is me” in your fight. Continue on my friend.....

Gourd Dancer

[j-o-h-n in reply to Hidden]

Warry, Wurly and Woe................

j-o-h-n <===<<< Senior management is about to spike my spikes....

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Friday 04/14/2023 11:33 PM DST

[Daddyishealing in reply to Hidden]

Oh hey gourd dancer..nice to hear your voice ..been a while . Keep truckiny friend xo

[Daddyishealing]

Check your hemoglobin and stay on top of all the blood stuff . You will prevail .awesome drop in PSA !

[bglendi53 in reply to Daddyishealing]

My hemoglobin is now down to 8.5, and I'm thinking that's too low to have any energy at all. They don't want to give me a blood transfusion until I hit 7. I can't imagine how bad I'll feel then