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Lonsurf Effectiveness

Phil42
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Hi.

I am writing to find out more about Trifluridine-tipiracil (Lonsurf). I have all the information I need from Macmillan and Cancer Research UK about the treatment.  But what I am missing is how effective it is or has been with patients like me who are stage 4 bowel cancer (metastatic to liver, lung) having third-line treatment. I am having no side effects at all, not even tiredness. This might be because I am training for the London Marathon and am running and doing exercises regularly.  I was offered an antibody (Avastin) but declined because I would have needed an implantable port.   So I'm just taking the Lonsurf tablets, as prescribed - two weeks on, two weeks off.  I am 54 years old and otherwise fully fit.

Do you have any research on this drug for patients who are only taking this?  

  • Dear Phil42, 

    Thank you for getting in touch. My name is Fiona and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists here on the Macmillan Support Line.  I’m sorry to hear that you are needing to have Lonsurf.

    I see that you’ve joined our bowel cancer forum, I hope that you are finding it a safe and supportive space. Your blog looks very interesting, I look forward to reading it.

    The SUNLIGHT study in 2023 showed that people did well with a combination of Lonsurf and Avastin and that side effects were largely tolerated.

    The ALTAIR trial showed that Lonsurf improved disease-free survival against placebo for stage 4 patients.

    As you’re probably aware, Lonsurf, together with Avastin, were approved in Scotland last year, followed by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), for patients with advanced bowel disease.

    It is worth noting that participants in studies come from different age groups and can have different health profiles from others in the study, so the findings are generalised across all groups. You have a higher fitness level than some which will certainly help.

    I hope this helps – good luck with the marathon.

    Warmest wishes

    Fiona S

    Ref: FS/BL

     


    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

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