Docetaxel treatment & effects?

[suesal123]

I have been on Pemetrexed maintenance which appears to have stopped working so my oncologist has now discussed the possibility of treatment with Docetaxel. I am just wondering if anyone else has had this treatment and what it was like?

[Harrypalmer]

Hi Sue, sorry to hear that Pemetrexed has stopped working for you. I don't have any knowledge of Docetaxel but I'm sure if you post this question on the Inspire website you'll be inundated with replies. I'm on a two month "holiday" from treatment as last scan showed stable after six rounds of Carbo/Pemet, and will have another scan next month and at some stage will start Tarceva which my oncologist thinks will be the best option. She in fact said that if she were in my shoes Tarceva would be her choice of treatment. Keep us posted as to when you start your next line of treatment. Sending big positive hugs. Moni x

[suesal123]

Thanks Moni,

Glad to hear that things are stable, I was wondering how you were getting on.

Tarceva has been discussed as on option further down the line and also seeing the people at Christies in Manchester for advice on any other treatments which are coming along. I'll keep my fingers crossed for your next scan. Sue xx

[emilyt36]

Hi All

My Mum was diagnosed last December with Stage 4 Lung Cancer with metastasis to bones, after four chemo treatments of Pemetrexed and carboplatin there was little change she moved to Tarceva in July and the results are amazing there has been shrinkage of tumor which is now just linear and the thickening of lung has gone along with the fluid she has remained stable since she takes it at home along with monthly bone strengthening injections and some pain killers for back but the change in her strength wise over the last month is amazing.We take each day as it comes but I read the Tarceva is an expensive drug that docs can only get a licence for after chemo and infact on the write up about the drug you have to have the chemo first, my mum hated chemo and it caused so many problems but we are here now nearly a year on and there is hope hang in there things are changing for people with Lung cancer xxx

[Harrypalmer]

Hi Emily, it's encouraging to read that Tarceva is working for your mum and long may it last. Has she suffered any of the nasty side effects so often associated with Tarceva like the horrible rash, blisters and sore finger and toe nails? Big hugs Moni x

[emilyt36 in reply to Harrypalmer]

Hi yes she's had rash but it was not bad at all very dry skin few sores on feet wavy hair and lots of eyelashes but overall she's tolerating it much better than chemo xx

[Hidden]

Hi Suesal,

Docetaxal is given as an IV and has many of the same side effects as other chemotherapy drugs. Some people have a few side effects, and some have them all. It is important that you look after yourself well, eat well, drink plenty of water, get enough rest and avoid people that have infections are your immune system will be compromised.

If you are looking for more information, please don't hesitate to contact us on 0333 323 7200.

Best wishes,

Beth, on behalf of information and support.

[Falv]

It's encouraging to read some positive news about Tarceva. I am about to start it having had an unsuccessful few rounds of maintenance chemo. I have been very worried about it not working and about the awful side effects the doctor described. Fingers crossed it will work for me too. X