Immunotherapy side effects

Hi Alexina,

Immunotherapy double dose every 6 weeks for 2 years - sounds like Pembrolizumab/Keytruda. If so, the short answer is "Yes".

What to do about Keytruda side effects? Changing to 3 weekly will put a dent in them but it doubles the amount of work for hospital so expect push-back.

As for being tired that will be worse a week or so after the infusion but should then ease off a little. Any kind of regular exercise will help - major difficult when tired but it does pay off and walking is excellent. (Double whammy: exercise boosts the immune system so more benefit is squeezed out of immunotherapy.) I found that my energy levels improved with Creatine Monohydrate - run that one past his doctor first (as always!) but it shouldn't be a problem.

Appetite is a tough one to crack, smaller meals more often is the usual answer, and try to emphasise the protein because Keytruda will need it.

kind regards
Steve

Hi Steve

Thank you for responding with advice. It's much appreciated.

 Only the first immunotherapy infusion was to be  a double dose and as far as I'm aware it's only Pembrolizumab but I'll check.

Up until his chemotherapy started he was at the gym three times a week - bicycle, weights and some other exercises.  He's not able to do much walking unfortunately due to the backs of his legs becoming so painful after a short time. I should mention he's 80 next month but has always been an active man.  I must find out more about the Creatine Monohydrate  - thank you.

You are right in advising about smaller meals - that's what I did today - and he cleared his plate. 

Hopefully the fatigue will lessen as time goes on.

Regards

Alexina