Has anyone requested to not have carboplatin as part of their treatment? So to have THP, instead of TCHP?

  • 1 reply
  • 282 subscribers
  • 46 views

I want to ask my oncologist about the possibility of having THP chemo, rather than TCHP, because of a few factors. I'm not sure how this works with the NHS Drs though. I've already been told that it will be TCHP and I have IDC HER2+ and ER+ grade 2 stage 1. I am being sent for a kidney function test. 

My reasons for asking to drop Carboplatin are:
I already have borderline impaired kidney function and it is hard on the kidneys (none of the other drugs are filtered through the kidneys)
I also tend to have a low blood cell count whenever I have blood tests and Carboplatin causes low white blood cells
I take certain medications that have severe withdrawals, so it would be good to not have the extended nausea and diarrhea caused by Carboplatin

I'd really appreciate any feedback on your experiences of asking the oncologist for a change in treatment. I don't want to annoy them, but equally I don't want to risk more side effects if Carboplatin is not absolutely necessary. 



  • Hi, I had TCHP and I have to admit it didn't cross my mind to ask for anything to be changed and I don't even know if this is feasible, I also don't recall anyone asking about this on here before.   If you want some more advice before talking to your medical team, the lovely people at Macmillan might be able to advice.  The helpline is there for advice snd information and available on 0800 808 0000 from 8am to 8pm daily. Best wishes 

    Community Champion badge