knowing if herceptin is working?

[Patty H]

I had the summer off chemo but continued on herceptin and zometa. Afterwards I had some new growth in the same lung met we have been using as a gage but no new mets. So I was wondering, does this mean herceptin isn't working for me or does it mean it is, since I haven't gotten any new mets and it didn't grow a whole lot considering I was off chemo for three months? Anyone know or have any ideas about herceptin? Patty H

[Lisa S]

Herceptin has been my friend for 4 yrs. I have had progression while on it by itself. However, I decided to keep taking it with chemo. THey say sometimes it works better with a chemo agent. I was always too scared to go off Herceptin. Xeloda and now Doxil worked great for me with Hercptin.

Good Luck,
Lisa

[Lolly]

I've been on Herceptin since January 2001; the first 6 months with Navelbine for recurrence, then NED and on Herceptin solo until 2nd recurrence this spring, so I did have progression after 2&1/2 years...Have been on Navelbine/Herceptin for 6 months and have had a good response, will have scans soon. I think it worked very well for me as monotherapy for a good long while, and will stay on it.
Love, Lolly