Severe reaction to paclitaxel

Hi Toastie I would recommend that you put this post up in our dedicated Ovarian cancer group (that you have been posting on) as this may connect you with people who have actually had this treatment.

I was asking in general, not just for paclitaxel. Guess I wasn't clear but that was why I posted in Chemotherapy.

I was just sharing what happened to me.

Hi Toastie,

Thanks for sharing what happened to you.

On 3rd Aug, I had a strong dose of cyclophosphamide to start the process of stem cell release in order to treat the myeloma blood cancer I have.

In the evening of 4th, I collapsed.  My son found me at the top of the stairs, 2 ambulances needed as 4 paramedics to get me down the stairs. 

By the time I got to A&E (we live very close), I was fitting and I ended up being sedated until 7th. I had many pipes and tubes attached and was very groggy when I came round. 

I see the consultant on 1st Sept but they reassure me there's other chemo drugs that won't have that effect on me. It was all very scary for me and particularly my family.

Did you manage to get further with your treatment and were you reassured before moving on? Julie xxx

Hi 

Had a very similar experience. First infusion of pax and carbo was okay, although quite bad side effects, following week they refused to give me it as they thought I needed time to recover. Following week returned and within 10 minutes had a reaction to paclitaxel. 
they have since changed the drug to abraxine, much safer because it’s bound with natural protein unlike paclitaxel. I’m told it’s 10 x the price. My chemo continued and I’ve been fine. There are other options. 
Hope you get the treatment you need and deserve. Good luck x

Thanks Minie,

It's nasty stuff. Met with the consultant Tuesday and he's come up with another plan snd another drug. It's got its own side effects but fingers crossed it's better. Also more expensive!! Julie xx