Herceptin

Does anyone have any side effects from herceptin only?

Jan,
Some women, including myself seem to have runny noses after Herceptin.

The chills and achyness that they tell you about for the first couple of treatments, I still get those. When I am getting my infusion, I get cold and for a couple of days, especially with the cold weather, I am stiff.

That has been my experience. It will be interesting to see if these symptoms go away after I stop the Herceptin.

I too have the runny nose. It's annoying but not horrible. But not the chills etc. I'm basically the same before and after treatment. I do find I tire a little more easily so I don't plan a really ambitious day but I could if I wanted to...just easier to lay low for a while. Good excuse to sit down with a book and enjoy:-) Herceptin is amazing......it can do its good work without running you through the wringer. I have found that I have more allergy/asthma issues but am not sure if it is herceptin related or just age. Good luck!

[Lolly]

Jan,
Yes...See my post above in answer to Susie, and best wishes!

Jan:

I too have had the runny nose. Initially, I had a mild headache and indigestion which lasted for ten days after the first infusion and three days thereafter. I have had the chills after some of the infusiions, usually the night of the infusion. My husband laughed as with a house temperature of 77 degrees I needed five blankets to keep warm. I do have stiff joints with Herceptin but they get better as the day goes on. All in all, I would stay on Herceptin forever if my oncologist and insurance would allow it.

Barb

I have been on Herceptin for four years and have very mild side effects. The only one that really bothers me is my runny nose. There are a few on the board that complain of this also. I do not take any pre-meds, took them only the first initial infusion. I didn't want to lose a day with the effects of Benedryl. I started out with weekly treatment and now I receive it every three weeks. Good Luck

Kathie

Dear Kathie,
Can you tell us a little more about yourself, ie; why have you been on herceptine for 4 years??
Thanks,
Al