CMF & Herceptin

Lyn · 10-12-2005, 06:30 AM

CMF – cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and fluorouracil ("5–FU" or 5–fluorouracil)

I had this combination in my first line of treatment in 1998, called a sandwich therapy which was AC first radiation and then CMF. I found the combination quite easy to tolerate with no side effects at all, no hair loss.

I am now on CF and herceptin, with the CF both oral this time, Cycloblastin tablets 50mg and Xeloda 500mg being the oral for 5FU. I am treating a new primary in my right breast with skin mets involvement, looked like inflammatory but no so. Radiation with Xeloda did not shift it so trying again. The C is also being used to treat my connective tissue disorder.

Hope this helps.

Love & Hugs Lyn

Becky · 10-12-2005, 07:01 AM

I wouldn't fool around this time and go the 4 AC followed by 4 taxol with Herceptin (and following Herceptin for a year).

You will lose your hair but have a better handle on subdueing the beast permanently.

Warm regards,

Becky

jjfromcanada · 10-12-2005, 08:14 AM

A friend of mine had CMF. She had very minor hair loss.

However, my real comment to you is "Its only hair!"

It grows back. I had CEF and lost it, but I managed with a wig, hats and scarves. With creative use of make-up and a few tips from the nice people at a Look Good clinic and my esthetician, I looked great.

So take the chemo that will do your cancer the most good and while your hair will grow back maybe the cancer won't.

Best wishes at a tough time.

Deborah Phaed · 10-12-2005, 10:39 AM

Lyn,

I too have a connective tissue disorder (my rheumy is trying to rule out SLE). Did you know the C would help both the cancer and the CTD beforehand? Also, what type of CTD do you have? I had heard of M being used for Lupus.