Aranesp

[MCS]

A question regarding use.

I used aranesp after every chemo treatment to manage my wbc. And it worked wonders.

The current studies of it are suggesting not to use it and even the Neulasta as well.

What are your doctors opinions on this.

I believe that it's such a good drug when given at the right time. I know it helped me with my counts.

thank you

Maria

[Lolly]

Hi Marie,
I had Aranesp during one of my 6 month regimen's with Navelbine when my Hemoglobin dropped below 9. My onc is very cautious with it, and I only got an injection every other week, and I was told it my HGB came up to 12 he would stop the Aranesp as the danger is in continuing it in the presence of normal counts. At least that's my understanding.

I only had to have Neulasta once, but I know there are several others here who had to receive regular injections of both white and red cell boosters in order to get through treatment.

I think caution is the key word with these drugs, but when they're needed in order to stay on schedule with treatment, they are warranted.

[jhandley]

Hi
i use reishi mushroom extract (Greenridge Immune support)..a few sips a day stopping a couple of days before chemo and waiting 2 days after.

Great for boosting wbc and some research shows it helps things like herceptin work better.
Jackie

[TSund]

How low during chemo should RBC go before getting treatment?

THX

TRS

[Barbara]

Hi:

I was surpised that there was a concern regarding both white cell stimulants such as Nuelasta and red cell stimulants (Arnesap, Procrit). I read two of the studies andy they only noted that red cell stimulants have been associated with faster cancer progression when comparing patients with or without red cell stimulants.

Barbara

[Grace]

Here is Procrit's site, which then sends you to FDA site on these types of drugs. This is not a suggestion to anyone, just information to help you make your decision:

http://www.procrit.com/PHA.pdf#zoom=100