Herceptin

I am beginning the once every 3 week dose of Herceptin next week. What kind of side effects have you ladies encountered? Do you need someone with you after treatment? Can I still work? Thanks ahead of time for any info.


Doris from Va.

Doris
I have been on Herceptin every 3 weeks for 2 years. The first dose will take longer as it is a loading dose, and they will monitor you for reactions. After the first dose, I had flu like symptoms, achey, fever, chills, but since then I have only felt tired....runny nose, and weight gain....I drive myself to most treatments 80 miles away....you should take someone with you until you know how you will feel, as everyone is different.
Good Luck
Hugs
Sheila

Doris

I felt much the same as Sheila with my first dose. Now, I get very exhausted the next day (although I do try to take a walk and do the "basics" like cook). I work and get my infusion on Friday afternoons. I do a lot of business travel and herceptin does not interfer (since Saturday is my tired day). I did not gain weight but sometimes I get diaherrea for a day or so (not bad just loose stools).

Currently I am getting Herceptin weekly but starting September 16, I go to the 3 week regime so I don't know if I will get even more tired (and I get a runny nose too).

Herceptin is an easy drug to take (I also take Arimidex since I am mildly ER (50%) and PR (5%) positive as well).

Best regards,

Becky

Doris,
I have been on Herceptin every three weeks for 19 months. I have no sdie effects at all. When I first started it, I was also on Gemzar, and all I got then was some nausea the evening of treatment. But that effect was from the Gemzar. BTW, my liver mets have not reappeared in a year while only on Herceptin.
Good luck!
Denise in PA

I started herceptin in June. I'll receive it every 3 weeks for at least a year.
I've had no side effects at all from the infusions.
Feel more tired than normal and have noticed a slight weight gain.
After standard chemo, this is minor in comparison in terms of side effects.
Good Luck
carol

Thanks for the info. It helps me to feel really confident that I can lead a close to normal life while I continue treatment. I am sure you all know what I mean!!!!!

Hi, Doris,

I am from Alexandria, VA. I've taken the herceptin many ways and find that compared to anything else going in the chemo-line, it is really easy to take. For me, I have more fever and flu-like symptoms when my markers are elevated (I've had mets since '99), and find symptoms less noticeable when my numbers are good and low. I am a single working mother and have been able to work and live my whole crazy "GINA" life totally unassisted while on and thanks to this drug. You should have no problems whatsoever, but every body is different so give it a while to see how it effects you. Take care and let me know if you are anywhere near the DC area, Gina