HER2 Support Group Forums - View Single Post - Tykerb

Joannie · 02-29-2008, 06:24 AM

SherryG:
I too was nervous taking Tykerb. The unknown of what the drug can do is sometimes overwhelming. Since I never received Herceptin, I really was greatful to get the opportunity to try Tykerb. I have to say, for me, I have tolerated it quite well. The diarrhea was the worst side effect. Lasted for 3 months, but not so bad that I even had to take an meds. After 3 months, it has subsided and I only get bouts of diarrhea maybe once every 6 weeks. I think something I eat may set it off. I do get echo cardiograms every 3 months through the trial to monitor my heart. So far, so good. I am on my last three months of Tykerb. My trial will end in April. Compared to standard treatment, this drug has been a piece of cake for me. I pray that this trial will have positive outcome and it can help many women in the future. If you have any other specific questions, please let me know. I have had many side effects, but most were short lived and quite tolerable. Good luck to you and I'm here if you need more info.
Joannie

02-29-2008, 06:24 AM	#27
Joannie Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Beavercreek, Ohio Posts: 67	SherryG: I too was nervous taking Tykerb. The unknown of what the drug can do is sometimes overwhelming. Since I never received Herceptin, I really was greatful to get the opportunity to try Tykerb. I have to say, for me, I have tolerated it quite well. The diarrhea was the worst side effect. Lasted for 3 months, but not so bad that I even had to take an meds. After 3 months, it has subsided and I only get bouts of diarrhea maybe once every 6 weeks. I think something I eat may set it off. I do get echo cardiograms every 3 months through the trial to monitor my heart. So far, so good. I am on my last three months of Tykerb. My trial will end in April. Compared to standard treatment, this drug has been a piece of cake for me. I pray that this trial will have positive outcome and it can help many women in the future. If you have any other specific questions, please let me know. I have had many side effects, but most were short lived and quite tolerable. Good luck to you and I'm here if you need more info. Joannie __________________ Joannie Diagnosed April 2003 3.3 cm tumor left breast HER2 positive 3++ ER/PR negative Masectomy April 2003 4 Rounds of AC - dose dense 4 Rounds of Taxol - dose dense Removed right breast prophalactically Full reconstruction with implants/nipples No Late Herceptin Received Started Tykerb TEACH Trial in May 2007 Completed Tykerb TEACH Trial in May 2008 5 year NED August 27, 2008!!!