What are side effects of Topotecan Chemo

[Belsie]

I had OVC stage 111 had surgery and have been on six different chemos. This started in 2013. Was in remission for six months. Chemo has worn me down. Now doctor wants to put me on Topotecan. Anybody been. On that how were the side effects. Been off chemo since Octber2 kind of scary. Anybody been off chemo that long.

[Sunnylee]

I had stage 3c clear cell ovarian cancer in 2007. Had surgery and 18 chemos of taxol carbo. No recurrence until 2015. So yes you can stay in remission for long periods of time. Had recurrence in psi as muscle above left kidney and in one lymph node on aorta. Had surgery, radiation and 18 chemos again. Finished chemo in February. I then tried Avastin which resulted in very high blood pressures so dr stopped. My CA 125 is not an indicator as it is always low. Had ct scan and so far no indication of cancer presence. Be positive.

[Belsie in reply to Sunnylee]

Did you take Topotecan chemo

[missa13]

Hi Belsie . Don't know if anyone here has had topotecan, but I've read from women elsewhere that it's been pretty tolerable with minimal side effects, (though of course everyone is different). The most common side effect is nausea. The treatment schedule might also involve some annoying travel because it's an infusion. But yes, many women go off chemo for longer periods than that and then re-enter treatment, so you're not alone. Sending you lots of strength and good wishes!

[Belsie in reply to missa13]

Thank you so much for responding. Missa13 I am due back to see my doctor on Monday. I don't know what she has planned. But it has been nice to get a break from chemo. Are you in remission.

[missa13 in reply to Belsie]

I was just reading about it the other day on a different thread

[Lizlsu]

Hi Belsie,

I’m on Topotecan now. The main side effects for me are low red and platelet counts and Adema/swelling in the abdomen and legs. I’ve experienced no nausea at all although the distended abdomen has forced me to eat much smaller meals. I look and feel like I’m 6 months pregnant. Good luck and keep in touch.