Hi can you take Avistan longer than the 22 cycles if it's working?

[Molste]

Hi can you take avistan longer than the 22 cycles if it's working?

[Katmal-UK]

I trialled Avastin back in 2007/8 and never heard of anyone taking it longer than the recommended number of cycles.

[Irisisme]

Hi Molste,

I had Avastin from the Drug Fund (NHS) and asked whether I could continue with it if I could pay for it (NHS won’t). My oncologist said that no oncologist would risk keeping me on it longer. I think it’s a general thing and has to do with the risks of bowel perforation. Maybe you could get a second opinion but I am now having it again, with Pacletaxel, and NHS only charge £500 a dose, and that’s every 3 weeks- I’m taking a break from both drugs soon, though.

Iris 🤗

[Pooshon in reply to Irisisme]

Are you having to pay for your scans privately as well because of having Avastin privately?

It will be coming off patent shortly so should be cheaper then.

[Irisisme in reply to Pooshon]

Hi Pooshon,

I’m still having treatment on NHS so scans are part of my NHS treatment. I only get charged for the Avastin, not any equipment used, nursing or facilities because I’d be entitled to those on NHS for the Paclitaxel. I don’t know what will happen if I’m no longer having the Paclitaxel.

I hope that covers your query.

Iris 🤗

[Pooshon in reply to Irisisme]

Thanks for your reply. Its just a pity it’s not free to us in England like it is in Scotland. Good luck with your treatment,

[Morini]

About 2 (ish) years ago Professor Jayson did a talk on Avastin & I think he also did a trial that monitored bloods (different to CA125) to see if this indicated how many people needed rather than everyone having a set amount. Might be worth seeing if Ovacome know more?