Thanks Steph, it's nice to know what to expect from someone who's experienced it. I took my first pills this morning and so far no side effects
, but we'll see what happens.
Joannie -
Here's a link to info on the trial
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct/sho...374322?order=1
In order to qualify for the trial you have to have been diag. stages I-III, currently be NED, and never received herceptin. You also have to have blood tests, a general physical by your onc., and a MUGA scan before starting.
The trial is a random, double blind trial, which means you randomly get chosen to either receive Tykerb (Lapatinib) or a placebo, and no one, not even your onc. knows which you're getting. The only way you find out, unless you have some sort of side effect, is if you have a medical emergency where they need to know whether or not you're taking it. You go see the onc every three months and also have to have a MUGA every 3 months.
The doseage is 6 pills, once a day, at least 1 hour before or after eating.
If you click on the link above and scroll down it lists participating oncs. by state.
I am in a similar situation as you....I was diag. in July 2002 and finished chemo in Jan. 2003 and at the time didn't get herceptin as I didn't qualify for any trial and once it was approved my onc was reluctant to give it to me as it had been so long since I finished chemo.
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Pat