Pembrolizumab

[tilstongal]

Hi, has anyone found that their symptoms from Pembrolizumab have disminished over time? I suffer nausea and sickness along with tiredness. It is working but I just wondered if one got used to it after a while.

Thanks,

Lorna

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear Lorna

Sorry to hear you are having continued symptoms of your treatment. It is difficult to know how long some side effects may last, for some people a few weeks, others a few months then stop. However there are good medication options to assist with managing the nausea and sickness.

I take it you have discussed this with your lung cancer specialist nurse or oncologist? Cancer research Uk have good advice on managing this: cancerresearch.uk

Avoid eating or preparing food when you feel sick.

Avoid hot fried foods, fatty foods or foods with a strong smell.

Eat several small meals and snacks each day.

Relaxation techniques help control sickness for some people.

Ginger can help – try it as crystallised stem ginger, ginger tea or ginger ale.

Try fizzy drinks.

Sip high calorie drinks if you can’t eat.

It may be helpful to be referred to a dietician to ensure you are receiving a nutritional diet with your ongoing nausea. Your GP or specialist can refer you. There is usually a dietician allocated specifically for those undergoing cancer treatment.

If you wish to discuss anything you can call us on our free nurse led helpline number on 0800 358 7200

All the best

The Roy Castle Support Team