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Old 02-07-2008, 11:08 PM   #5
pffida
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Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Southern California
Posts: 33
Stopping Herceptin

I, too, experienced cardiac problems (reduced ejection fraction). I had an echocardiogram, nuclear stress test, exercise stress test and a halter monitor for a day to monitor racing pulse. After all the tests, it was determined that the Herceptin, taken every three weeks, was causing the problem. I took a rest for about 5-6 weeks. My horrible cough disappeared, as did the fast pulse.

I then started Herceptin again, only this time I'm taking it every week. The onc has had good success is making this change for her patients. I've been back on the drug since last October and have no symptoms of cardiac problems. You might want to ask about receiving it every week -- its a chore, but worth it.
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Diagnosed 11/06; IDC
Stage 1, Grade 2
MRM 12/06; 19 nodes removed, all negative
ER/PR-, HER2+++
  • 4 rounds AC - every 3 weeks
  • 3 rounds Taxol + Herceptin - every 3 weeks (developed allergy to Taxol so stopped treatment)
  • Weekly Herceptin after Herceptin-induced cardiomyopathy from treatments every 3 weeks
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