Is there any data on frequency of Herception?

[Annemarie]

I was wondering if there was any data on the frequency (once a week vs. once every three weeks)?
Annemarie

[Lolly]

Annemarie, here's a link to some data from the 2004 SABAC, along with an excerpt:


Updated Efficacy and Safety Analyses of 3-weekly Trastuzumab Monotherapy in Women with HER2-positive Metastatic Breast Cancer: Results from Twelve Months of Follow-up to a Phase II Study

http://professional.cancerconsultant....aspx?ID=33962
"...Treatment with trastuzumab given once every 3 weeks appears comparable to results of trastuzuamb given weekly in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. Trastuzumab given once every 3 weeks can improve patient convenience, which is an especially relevant way in which to administer trastuzumab in patients receiving this treatment for prolonged periods of time. Perhaps direct comparative trials of the different dosing schedules are necessary to confirm the effectiveness of lesser dosing...."

<3 Lolly

[Annemarie]

Lolly,

Thanks so much! Happy Thanksgiving!

[jessica]

HI~
Just wanted to share a little input on the question of qweekly Herceptin vs.q3week. If the efficacy is equal, then the q3week schedule is certainly more convenient! Unfortunately, in my case, the triple dose made me so sore-body aches like crazy, feeling totally arthritic from eyelids to toenails! These symps would subside, just in time for my next triple dose! So, I've chosen to return to the qweekly schedule. I'd rather go for my infusion once a week and feel good vs. the "freedom" of q3week & feel lousy!
Keep the Faith!

[lu ann]

Hi,

I get my infusion of herceptin and gemsar bi-weekly with zometa monthly. I have found that I have much more discomfort when zometa is included in the mix. They might switch me to aridea for the bone mets if it continues to be bothersome.

I have pain in my knees and my right wrist with this weeks infusion (herceptin and gemsar).

My treatment 4 weeks ago was unbearable. I felt like I had restless leg syndrome with pain and numbnes running rampant through my body. Doc put me on paxil for my nerves and elavil for the nerve pain. It seems to have helped but gives me awfull dry mouth and skin. I'm getting zits on my face. But the quality of life is much better so I won't compain.

My daughter and I went shopping at the mall today from 11:00 am till 8:00 pm. This is the first time I ever went shopping the day after Thanksgiving. We had a marvolous time. The old Lu Ann would have never fought the crowds to go shopping. It's all about our perception. We can either see it as half empty or half full.

Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving to All, Lu Ann.