Docetaxel Side effects - not coping

Hello,

I am sorry you are feeling so unwell with the taxotere. Unfortunately some people do react to this drug. 

Please ring your BCN or oncology tomorrow and just explain how you are feeling. Whilst the reactions may settle down soon, they could also flare up and can cause lasting damage.

I made that mistake. I didn't want to make a fuss and despite having severe problems in my hands and feet, thought they were normal. The damage caused resulted in permanent nerve damage. I am still seeing a neurologist and taking daily pills, nine years later. The oncologist could have helped if I had contacted him. Nowadays many oncologists give this drug weekly or reduce the dose to 80% to avoid these reactions. It is important you discuss how you are feeling before the next cycle. My oncologist cancelled my final cycle because he saw my feet couldn't take more damage but if I had told him after the first cycle, he would have reduced the quantity and perhaps I wouldn't have developed the final problems.

I want to stress that you may be fine in a day or two but don't ignore it. Discuss the symptoms asap.

I hope things improve and the treatment is successful. 

Take care. Love Karen

Hi Karen. Thank you for your reply and for taking the time to explain your experience. I will call them tomorrow and see what they say, I just thought it was all normal but listening to you perhaps it isn't. 
thank you x

Hello, oh bless you. I had 4 infusions of Docetaxal, following 2 infusions of EC. The two types of chemo are very different animals, and I experienced pretty much the same side effects as you from the first infusion. I didn’t know what had hit me. The pain improved for me a few days afterwards, so from day 8 ( if my memory is right) it became manageable again. But I had other cumulative side effects, such as losing all sense of taste. However, it was the fourth infusion that was most grim for me, but you are only having 3. Well done for doing all the things that you are doing. Xx 

Thank you for taking the time to reply, whilst I'm sorry you had to endure it too there's some comfort knowing I stop at 3 when 4 was the worst. 
I have woken today profoundly better - much less discomfort to the hips and back and just a bit of a headache really. 
I will contact the team at the hospital to just tell them of the issues but perhaps it's just what has to be tolerated for the next 2?

Better pain relief might be the thing!! 

xx

Hi, I’m really sorry to hear that you are struggling with the Docetaxel, it’s a horrible drug, I’ve never experienced anything like it.  I found that keeping myself topped up with 30/500mg Codine, a heat pad and warm baths helped to take the edge off.  I think I was lulled into a false sense of security because my three cycles of FEC were fairly kind to me, then boom, the Docetaxel hit every bone in my body.  If you can get a heat pad with multiple settings and auto switch off it’s helpful for getting some relief at night and to help sleep.  Take Care x

Yes, I would agree with that, seek some advice from your oncologist.  9 years on, I’m left with permanent nerve pain and have to use Amitriptyline and codine every day.

Thank you for the advice, I will have a look for a heat pad. I had also decided I was going to ask for cocodamol 30/500 and just dose myself up and try and get through.

The horrible thing is now the fear for the next 2 cycles now I know what to expect. 

Thanks again though for the reply x

I am sorry, my intention was not to put more fear in you.  I know lots that had a terrible time with FEC and an easier time with the Docetaxel, it really is different for everyone.  My mindset at the time, because of the pain I was experiencing with Docetaxel was to start worrying that it was maybe something related to my cancer.  I Just wanted you to know that what you were experiencing was not uncommon for some people.  So sorry if I worried you more.  Take care x

Oh no I meant the experience of my last cycle was making me fearful of the next 2 not your experience. Your suggestions give me some practical things to try which is really helpful so thank you xx