Docetaxel v Paclitaxel

Hi, I also had a bad experience with FEC and my onco suggested weekly Paclitaxel (9 instead of usual 12 as my tumour responded well to FEC), instead of 3 weekly Docetaxel. She said it's 'kinder' on the body with side effects and blood counts....I was struggling every cycle with FEC to get my neutrophils above 1. Also the research shows good outcomes in comparison studies.. Obviously there is the inconvenience of a weekly blood test and visit to chemo unit and cannula. I'm getting my 3rd one today and ......touch wood....it's def been a better experience so far...I'm hoping it doesn't have a cumulative effect and I've spoken too soon!. I have a very runny nose and losing my lashes and brows now but hair (fluff) on my head is growing.

Hope this helps x

I had a terrible time on EC. 4 rounds. Hospitalised after first 2, then had dose reduced for the last two. I had every side effect going. I then had 12 rounds of weekly paclitaxel. It was tough. I was tiered all the time. I had lots of side effects. But compared to EC it was a walk n the park!  Don’t be put off. It will pass and then you will hopefully be cured and never see the horrible cancer again. Good luck. You can do this. xx

Thanks for sharing ladies, it’s reassuring that there are options, I feel like I haven’t really had any discussions with professionals about how bad it’s been just the breast nurse ringing me and trying to be understanding.

Wishing you both well for the future. X

I had 3 courses of EC which were horrendous and made me feel really poorly. Just had no. 5 today of 12 Paclitaxel, much better. My hair is growing back (fluffy) and I'm more active!