Loratadine for itchy rash on Nivolumab

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Hi

im in my 8 cycle of immunotherapy - 4 of which have been with iPi and Nivolumab and now on maintenance drug Nivolumab.

i have never had any side effects u til last august when my thyroid went out if cj york due to the drugs and was given levothyroxine medication which after taking for a few days I git a rash in my life kegs - about 4 blustery type spots in each which have been no bother until after Christmas my doctor go increased the levothyroxine to 125 - wIthin   a week my legs had several more in these big crusty top spots which this week are niw itchy and sore.  Doctor given me suricate and referred me to dermatologist who I’m serious g in two weeks.  She feels it Coujd be the levothyroxine causing this as the reaction each time has come sfter the medication has been u creased.

i am very it y snd she said Loratadine Woukd be best medication as I had one of my kidneys removed in 2030 yo the cancer which has then returned in the main renal vein / but at Christmas shown signs shrinkage.  I am itching is it safe to take 1 Loratadine each day to stop the rash - having no kidney snd receiving Nivolumab 

  • Hi ,

    Our 'Ask a Nurse' forum opens again on Monday morning at 9am. In the meantime, it's important that you make your treatment team aware of your rash. Nivolumab can cause a blistering skin rash that needs assessing by a cancer specialist as your GP may be unfamiliar with this. These skin reactions often develop after months of treatment and can become a serious complication.

    Most people on immunotherapy will have a 24 hour contact number for the hospital team. Please call them as soon as possible and don't wait till your dermatology appointment. They will be able to assess if the rash is related to the nivolumab and will also be able to advise you on the most appropriate treatment. If you don't have a 24 hour contact number you can call 111 to arrange an assessment. 

    Best wishes,

    Lucy, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts.
    Phone free on 
    0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us. 

    Ref/DW