Maintenance treatment for stage 4

[Annielowie]

Hi All, My first post.

I have Braca 2 gene and stage 4 ovarian cancer diagnosed nov. 20. Had 6 cycles of chemo and surgery feb 21. Finished chemo in April 21, Since then I have been on Avastin infusion x3 weekly and Olaparib x2 a day. I have just gone back to work. Had a blood transfusion 3 weeks ago as my haemoglibin was low and i was very breathless. That heled alot. Im breathless again so just had bloods done ,waiting to hear if i need another transfusion. Apart from mouth ulcers and tiredness in evenings I have been doing very well after9 months of treatment. Anyone else in the same boat with regular blood transfusions.? Been told likely symptom of Olaparib as it lowers white and red cell count ,making you anemic.

Thanks for reading.

Al

LOOKING FORWARD TO MORE YEARS WITH MY KIDS GOD WILLING. Xxx

[delia2]

Hi Annie. It sounds like you’re doing pretty well despite the tiredness and anemia. Have they discussed lowering the dose of Olaparib? Quite a few people have to lower the dose. I was on 400 mg vs 600 a day and now am on 300 because of side effects. I’ve been on it 17 months and am somatic brca1.

[Seedlings]

Hi Annie.I'm on Niraparib X 2 100mg capsules at night for nearly 4 mths.

Just over two weeks ago I had a low haemoglobin of 8.5 which dropped quickly to7.1 in two days. I had a transfusion of 2 units . It took a few days to recover. Then 12 days later the same thing happened so I had another 2 units on Friday last. I'm still very tired.

My consultant told me it is drug induced anemia. I'm concerned about having transfusions so often and certainly cannot see myself doing this every two weeks!.

What I'm wondering is can this anemia pass ?.

Has anyone experience of these symptoms. Otherwise I'm doing well....I hope!.

Thanks to all and prayers for all cancer patients.

[Moirac]

It took me 6 months to find the best dosage of Lynparza for me. During that time, I had 3 blood transfusions. Maybe talk to your doctor about adjusting your daily dosage. I’m feeling great now. I take 150 mg 2x a day. Good luck.