GEMZAR...any tips from those who have had it?

Chelee · 07-13-2011, 04:10 PM

Hi Shelia,
I've never been on Gemzar. However my Mother had advanced lung cancer and was on it for a while. She was 77 yrs old at the time and I was amazed--she handled it quite well. She had very few SE's from it. She did have mild nausea for a few days...but not bad. It did affect her appetite a little bit...but ate well regardless. Other then that it seemed to be a very tolerable chemo to do. She did have some fatigue a few days but it would pass. Her hair gradually started thinning out very slowly! We kept thinking maybe she wouldn't lose it all? She had to have WBR--had she not had that I think it might of just thinned out a bit? My Mother had other health issues so I was really worried about her starting chemo. Over all she just did great on Gemzar. So I don't think you of all ppl will have many problems? At least I hope not. I hope it kicks butt on your cancer and causes you little to no problems at all.

Chelee

Jackie07 · 07-13-2011, 09:12 PM

Darlene Denise also has had Gemzar.

11/11/09 GEMZAR/HERCEPTIN FOR LIVER PROGRESSION

Delaney · 07-14-2011, 01:43 AM

Hi Sheila,
I've been on Gemzar since March 14 this year. I hate the red face but thankfully it goes after a day or so. The fluid retention is becoming a problem now, I was ok up to this week, so I must do a search and see what can be done. Gemzar is not affecting my hair, thats growing back after wbr. My appetite isnt great but I eat when I can. Hopefully someone else will have some good tips. Hope this chemo works well for you.

07-14-2011, 01:48 AM

I never have Decadron with Abraxane even though it is standardly prescribed. I agree it is best avoided if possible. It turns me into an impulsive and agitated monster. My friend is on Gemzar for ovarian cancer and her hair has thinned but is still looking good with judicious styling. I hope you cope ok with the weekly schedule. It certainly is an impost on your precious time. All the best
Trish