cisplatin+ herceptin / burning effect on skin-steroid

[beatrice]

Hi, I am on a weekly therapy of Herceptin+Cisplatin. Is anyone doing the same? What are your experiences? I have no major side effects so far, but was wondering how long I have to do it for, the future, etc. I started end of last June.
Also, I have had sterotaxis for brain mets in July, following which I have taken steroid. I am now on a low dose (2mg a day), but feeel like I have a burning effect on my skin...?

[Chrisrine]

Beatrice,
I have never taken Cisplatin, but ubderstand that is one of the most powerful combination w/ Herceptin. I hope you are drinking alot of water during and after TX. Platin salts can make the kidneys stressed, so lots of water is recomended. Water may also help your skin burning. In the Phase 1 clinical trisla it was geiven for 6 months. But i feel it is rational to take 3 or 4 months , then scan to follow-up and then continue if necessary, abd feeling okay to continue. Ask your Onc about this possible plan. Warm Hugs

[Kitty]

Beatrice,

I was on weekly taxol/herceptin/carboplatin for 32 weeks and had no side effects except red blood count dropped slightly towards the end so I had aranesp shots every 2 weeks to build up count. Carboplatin is similar to Cisplatin just a little milder version. Drink lots of water to flush your kidneys. This is a powerful combination! Good luck.