To have or or not to have?

[Btte]

Avastin, I am on 2nd line carbo/gem. Due 3rd cycle on Friday after which a CT scan then make your mind up time. I have read some of the side effects not very good, I also have Crohn's disease which doesn't help. Anyone else in similar state.Please help.

[Hidden]

It is a very hard decision to make, but I suppose it depends on what advice your Oncologist gives, they have your medical records afterall and also know the risks to you.

My advice would be to go with what they advice beat wishes love x G x

[nork2]

Hi. I've had three doses of Avastin so far whilst on first line chemo and will now continue as maintenance regime for as long as possible. The oncologist had some reservations about it as I had a previous bowel obstruction but following consultation with radiologist, surgeon etc decided that the benefits would outweigh the risks and so far so good. No other side effects to report so far. I'm sure your team will also thoroughly consider as well whether Avastin is for you. I'd be guided by their expertise.

Best wishes.

[Whippit]

Dear Btte, I think you should discuss with your oncologist who really is the best person to advise. The only thing I've heard from an eminent oncologist talking about avastin that women with 'sticky' bowels should not have it. I don't know whether this sheds any light on the discussion.

If you can get it and don't want it you could pass it on to someone who's lost out in the avastin postcode lottery. Only kidding - but sometimes I'm thinking we should be more resourceful about getting hold of this drug.

Good luck with your deliberations.

Loads of love xxx Annie

[Bougheycat]

I'm on Avastin 1st line and am due number 13 Monday 5th June! Main side effects for me are fatigue and gums bleeding and odd nosebleed, which they keep an eye on... If it gives me extra time I would do it all again... They don't offer it if you are not suitable. Every one reacts differently to these drugs but I just think it gives you time and hope! Hope this is helpful!

[Bougheycat]

Sorry got that wrong it's number 15 with only 3 to go!

[HumbleD]

Hi there,

I started on Avastin last year after four sessions of carbo/gem second line chemo. I am still on manainence Avastin and tomorrow will hear the results of my CT scan that I had last week. My CA125 was taken down to about 11 and since finishing my second line chemo last November I have never regretted consenting to take it. However, I was in a complete mess after signing the consent form and really lost it until speaking to a faith healer at the hospital. I have had issues with blood pressue which is now controlled with amolpidine and ramipril. it has also affected my thyroid function, I am underactive and will go on thyroxine next week. My GP looks after the blood pressure and thyroid treatement.

I have also had a bowel blockage due to a sticky bowl after my debulking operation and was told that it may happen again.

I do not have the health issues that you have but your oncologist will be able to offer you guidance on this.

Take care,

love Wendy xx

[Btte in reply to HumbleD]

Thank you Wendy your reply has been very helpful, hope you have good news after your scan. Btte Xx

[Btte]

Thank you all for swift replies I will let you know how things pan out, I have spoken to my onc. It was after that conversation that I felt I needed to do some research for myself, but I will be talking it through again. Have only been involved with this site and technology for a short time it really helps. Love Btte xx

[chemlcali]

GOOD LUCK I WISH YOU WELL AND THAT YOU FIND PEACE IN YOUR DECISION.

JANE

[chemlcali]

GOOD LUCK I WISH YOU WELL AND THAT YOU FIND PEACE IN YOUR DECISION.

JANE

[chemlcali]

GOOD LUCK I WISH YOU WELL AND THAT YOU FIND PEACE IN YOUR DECISION.

JANE