HER2 Support Group Forums - View Single Post - Please post your two cents on Herceptin "side effects" real or perceived!

Nancy B. · 07-24-2007, 09:03 AM

Ladies,

I am unclear from reading the various posts how and whether we know certain side effects are caused by Herceptin or earlier chemo drugs. In Oct 05 I was diagnosed with Stage IIIc bc (less than 1 year after a clear mammogram), ER+/PR+, Her2+. Had lumpectomy and axillary nodes removed, did 4 cycles of AC, followed by weekly T+H for 12 weeks followed by 40 weekly Herceptin infusions. Clear PET/CT in June 2006, no evidence of disease since and did four more months of herceptin (once every 3 weeks) until MUGA went from 70 to 52. Stopped herceptin 6 weeks ago.

I have felt great throughout my herceptin treatment, except for extreme stiffness in hands and feet upon waking in the morning, which goes away after walking a minute or two. I believe this actually started on the Taxol. So does anyone know whether this is the Taxol lingering on or the Herceptin, and how long will it last? It doesn't seem to be getting any better. I'm 52 and exercise a lot and eat a healthy diet.

Thanks for your thoughts and suggestions!

07-24-2007, 09:03 AM	#234
Nancy B. Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: New Hope, PA Posts: 5	Long-Term Herceptin Side Effects Ladies, I am unclear from reading the various posts how and whether we know certain side effects are caused by Herceptin or earlier chemo drugs. In Oct 05 I was diagnosed with Stage IIIc bc (less than 1 year after a clear mammogram), ER+/PR+, Her2+. Had lumpectomy and axillary nodes removed, did 4 cycles of AC, followed by weekly T+H for 12 weeks followed by 40 weekly Herceptin infusions. Clear PET/CT in June 2006, no evidence of disease since and did four more months of herceptin (once every 3 weeks) until MUGA went from 70 to 52. Stopped herceptin 6 weeks ago. I have felt great throughout my herceptin treatment, except for extreme stiffness in hands and feet upon waking in the morning, which goes away after walking a minute or two. I believe this actually started on the Taxol. So does anyone know whether this is the Taxol lingering on or the Herceptin, and how long will it last? It doesn't seem to be getting any better. I'm 52 and exercise a lot and eat a healthy diet. Thanks for your thoughts and suggestions!