new treatment plan: any experiences?

[eric]

Hi all:

We were just informed that my wife Caryn will be receiving Gemzar and Herceptin to knock out her liver and lung mets. I was wondering if anyone has any experience with this combo and what side effects they experienced. Caryn also started Zometa yesterday to help prevent spread to the bones and apparently is one of the few that experiences flu like symptoms. They're not terrible at all and they said they will pre-med her the next time which should help as well but she tends to be more sensitive than most so she is understandably nervous.

Thanks, Eric

[Brian]

My wife took Gemzar and Herceptin for a period of 6 months for liver and lung mets. Had a tremendous reaction which took her to NED. Side effects were limited. The Gemzar dropped her neutrophil counts for which she was given Neulasta. Her hair and nails did not grow as well and she suffered some fatigue the day of administration. That's about it. Wife has been on maintenance herceptin for 1.5 years at this point and is doing well. Just started the vaccine study a U. of Washington.

[eleanor]

Hi eric,
I was on that combo for a few months last year and I was lucky. I did not experience any severe side effects.
el

[Kathie in New Jersey]

I have been on Gemzar-Taxol and Herceptin for two rounds so far. I've take Taxol in the past and knew how that effected me but the Gemzar gave me 102 temps for three days. The following week I had terrible diarhea and rash all over my body and my blood dropped (first time on chemo and I have been on four) All these are side effects of Gemzar. Everyone reacts differently, however, your wife might not even be effected. Good Luck

[eric]

Thanks to each of you for responding. It's reassuring to know it's been so good for some and relatively mild.

I'll let you know how she does.

Love to all, Eric

[Gil Jusino]

Eric,
My wife has had one treatment of the same combination. She ran a fever of 102 for a day & a half. This week her red blood cell & platelet counts were down.
Gil