How often are you getting Muga/Echo's
 

I started Herceptin 10/06. My oncologist suggested a muga in 6 mo. I thought every 3 months for a muga would be better. Also after reading the Muga vs Echo thread, I think I will ask for an Echo next time.

Hi Carla,

I had an ECHO before chemo started to make sure I had a strong enough ticker for chemo. That is what my onc. used as a starting point for me for when herceptin started last Oct. 2005. After 4 months my onc. ordered a MUGA to make sure my heart was tolerating the herceptin well. It was and that is the last MUGA or ECHO I had. I finished herceptin Oct. 11, 2006 and basically had no troubles (minus aches/pains, a little diarrehea). I did question my onc. at about 6 months into herceptin and wondered why I wasn't given a MUGA more often and her response was that more often than not toxicisity (spelling?) from herceptin occurs within the first 4 months. She then goes by blood pressure, heart rate and symptoms. I didn't always like that about her BUT trusted her and made it through fine.

So, good luck to you. Mary Jo

How often muga?
 

Every three months for me. My friend is being treated by same oncologist and she also gets hers every three months, so I guess it's standard for him. MJO

I receive echocardiograms every three months since starting Herceptin.

I received
 

1 echo 3 days prior to starting Herceptin 8/18/05 and never received another one. Take care and God bless.

Rhonda

I have gotten ECHO's about every 3 months...closer to 4 months a couple times. My onc just assume not run any scans or tests unless I push for them...but ECHO's she has always been serious about. In fact I will finish herceptin in mid Feb. 07 and she even wants me to have one more ECHO before I am done...and one 3 months AFTER I finish herceptin.

My last ECHO was 72%...all mine have been pretty good so far. (Knock on wood.)

It sure gave me peace of mind to have my ECHO's on schedule. I agree that you should ask for a ECHO sooner.

Hang in there.

Chelee

My insurance company stops paying for the herceptin if I don't get a muga every 3 months. The business office at the clinic gets the "message" and sends me off for a muga! I was amazed!