I have got through a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy fairly unscathed. However, I've had my first dose of herceptin (that I know I'm lucky to have) but it left me very tired and feeling 'drugged up' for about a week. Can anyone share there experience of herceptin with me - is this a 'one off' and my body will get used to it or am I to expect the same side effects from the next 16 doses?
I completed 18 cycles of Herceptin last month, and really had no unpleasant side-effects at all. Are you having it at the same time as Taxotere?? If so, this could be the cause of the tiredness, as I know some people get flu-like side-effects with Taxotere. Also I guess you had a heart scan prior to starting treatment? Might be worth giving your Onc. a call just to be on the safe side!
Hope things improve for you with the next cycle and subsequent cycles.
Love Jayne x
FormerMember
Hi Jayne
thanks for your comments & advice. Yes, I've had the heart scan and no I'm not taking Taxotere so I phoned the hospital earlier at your suggestion - can't think why I didn't think of doing that myself. The hosp said my symptoms didn't sound right & suggested I go in for a blood test. I am going in tomorrow am as I was too tired to drive today!
I'll let you know how I get on (I'm assuming you're interested)
Thanks again
Judyr x (formerly plymouth - thought I was entering a sectret password, didn't realise it would appear as my name!)
FormerMember
Plymouth really didn't suit you at all!
Of course I'm interested Judy - us Herceptin users need to stick together! Hope all went well at the hospital.
J x
FormerMember
Yes Jayne, I agree about the name! but it was my first ever blog, I'm feeling exhausted etc.
I managed to get to hospital this morning and a kind nurse found me a bed so I could have a quick snooze while I awaited my blood test results which eventually came back OK. Basically my fatigue has been caused by the herceptin and may include an accumulation of radiotherapy in my system. No one can tell me if this fatigue is just a 'one off'' or not but I get the impression that fatigue is more common than publicised. I'm hoping it's a one off as my next cycle is on 30th Oct & I'm due back at work on 5th Nov having already had 8 months sick leave.
I'm glad you got through your treatment OK . Do you work Jayne? and did you 'pop out'', have your treatment and then go back to work as I've heard other women do? Or is that just a myth,
Judy x
FormerMember
Hmmm, yes I do sort of work, part-time, but on Herceptin days I used to take the day off. I think you must listen to your body, and if you need to take more time off, take it (assuming you have an understanding employer of course!)
I really hope you don't suffer as much next time Judy, keep us posted xxx
