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Barbara H. · 07-28-2010, 09:19 AM

Hi Julie,
I suggest that you read my past posts. I developed extensive mets over 6 years ago. The only drugs I took prior to TDM-1 were Hereceptin, Zometa, and six months of Navelbine. Navelbine was working, but I didn't like the side effects. I went on a weekly trial of TDM-1 in Sept. 2007. I was on it for two years. Although it was still working I had to go off of it last fall because I developed lung inflammation as a side effect. It was working so I still could consider it in the future. I have been on Herceptin and Tykerb since last fall. I also feel great, and my markers are normal.

I would not save TDM-1 for later. It is an excellent drug with few side effects. The only side effect I had were frequent nose bleeds, but I also had them as a child. As far as I know, I am the only patient that developed lung inflammation. Why not use an easy and effective drug such as TDM-1 now? It might work for you for years. New effective drugs are being developed for HER2 cancer for when you may need them later. In fact, I heard at a conference that there is hope that HER-2 breast cancer may be cured within the next five to ten years. I do not know if that includes those of us with mets, but there will certainly be better treatments.

Best wishes and good luck with your decision.

Barbara H.

07-28-2010, 09:19 AM	#2
Barbara H. Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Newton, MA Posts: 951	Re: Please give me some suggestions Hi Julie, I suggest that you read my past posts. I developed extensive mets over 6 years ago. The only drugs I took prior to TDM-1 were Hereceptin, Zometa, and six months of Navelbine. Navelbine was working, but I didn't like the side effects. I went on a weekly trial of TDM-1 in Sept. 2007. I was on it for two years. Although it was still working I had to go off of it last fall because I developed lung inflammation as a side effect. It was working so I still could consider it in the future. I have been on Herceptin and Tykerb since last fall. I also feel great, and my markers are normal. I would not save TDM-1 for later. It is an excellent drug with few side effects. The only side effect I had were frequent nose bleeds, but I also had them as a child. As far as I know, I am the only patient that developed lung inflammation. Why not use an easy and effective drug such as TDM-1 now? It might work for you for years. New effective drugs are being developed for HER2 cancer for when you may need them later. In fact, I heard at a conference that there is hope that HER-2 breast cancer may be cured within the next five to ten years. I do not know if that includes those of us with mets, but there will certainly be better treatments. Best wishes and good luck with your decision. Barbara H.