Side effects of Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin (Capox)

Morning - all went well on Monday. Felt a bit off yesterday but am feeling better today. The only problem I have is cramp in my calves. This developed when I’d been on the drip for a couple of hours and still hasn’t gone away, but I can put up with that. 

How are you doing?

Hi Tufty. I remember having cramp for the first couple of days, especially when going upstairs, but it stopped after that so hopefully yours will too

Take care

Karen x

Hi Tufty I’m glad to hear that Monday went well. I too suffered with cramps including in one of my calves. Unfortunately, I have now been told to stop taking the capecitabine and I won’t be having anymore oxaliplatin. My oncologist wasn’t happy with how ill the two had made me. I’m incredibly grateful to her, and have a meeting on 11th. I’m hoping she can suggest a less brutal alternative. Fingers crossed that your cramp is soon just a memory, and that you continue to feel better.

Hi jools63 - cramps have almost gone. Not feeling quite 100% yet but getting there. Hope all goes well on 11 for you. 

Hi AnamCara, sorry I've taken so long to reply.

I've been a bit rebellious too - during my week off Capox, the usual side effects started to wear off so I thought I would indulge myself in one of my favourite things, good food and wine. I ordered in 4 of my all-time favourite dishes including a fruits de mer. I know I shouldn't have risked eating shellfish with my immune system possibly compromised but, what can I say, it really made me happy and I got away with it. Everyone has to make their own decisions on what to risk and what price they are prepared to pay for injecting some joy into their life. Totally understand why you took a week off to see your mum and family, I would have done the same!

Good luck to you too. JSM

I’m not on that. I’m on immunotherapy, oxilaplatin and folfox. I’m in bed the full week after the treatment and can’t eat. I’ve lost 3 stone so far. ️

Hi Jools - I have the same side effects - tingling fingers, face cramps etc but the nausea is awful. Do you not take tablets? i was wondering if anti sickness just holds it at bay and then when you come off them - bam here's the nausea?? xx

If it helps.after feeling sick the first round I took the anti nausea tablets for the first week each cycle to pre empt any sickness.And it worked.I didnt wait until I felt nauseous.

Kath

thanks Kath. I got extra anti sickness but only 3 days worth so once they finished the nausea just hit me. i do have the ones they give that you can take as and when but they just don't hit the spot. i have heard if you fast 48 hrs before and 24hrs after chemo it helps??

I found that Ondansetron really helped with the nausea. My oncologist said I could take it 3 times a day and shouldn't wait for the nausea to start.  Do ring the helpline as it's not just for emergencies. Your GP may also be able to help. I know how awful the nausea and vomiting can be. 

Cheryl x