Immunatheropy with Pembro, intense back pain

That all sounds very unpleasant PC16 and it's natural to worry about what might happen if you can't complete the immunotherapy course.

I haven't had immunotherapy, so don't have any experience of this to share with you, but noticed that your post hadn't had any replies yet. There are lots of people in the group who have had immunotherapy and hopefully one of them will be along soon to share their experiences with you, as responding to your post will 'bump' it back to the top of the discussion list.

Anne

Thanks Anne, very much appreciate your kind words. I hope you are doing OK in your own journey. I am trying to stay as positive as possible, its the waiting for answers that makes this so hard. I am in for the long haul and will do what's needed to get through this. 

Paul

Yes, I'm doing well thank you 

First, if you research Pembro under the brand name Keytruda, yes back pain is a known possible side effect.

You don't mention your cancer stage or type.  In principle Pembro is usually only one of a number of possible immunotherapy or other treatments.  So don't abandon hope!  I was due two years of Pembro but chose to stop after one year because of side effects.  Being treated for melanoma stage 4.  I am now one year no evidence of disease but very aware this cancer may or may not return....

Please don't think you have no further treatment available!! Wishing you well.

Hi Mendoe, 

Thanks for taking the time to respond, I am stage 3 Melanoma. I understand the side effects but I had to stop during the treatment being administered as the pain was too intense. Waiting on next discussion with the oncologist to understand next steps. 

Paul

There is an excellent FB group called Melanomamates if you have not yet discovered it.  Excellent knowledgeable mainstream friendly support by fellow melanoma patients.  No unpleasantness, no medically unapproved methods or adverts.