Reduced dose chemo due to side effects

User

Posted 18 Nov 2024 at 09:59

My husband suffered severe effects after his first docetaxel chemo - he developed ulcerative colitis and spent two weeks in hospital. As a result his oncologist has delayed the next chemo indefinitely and will reassess this decision in 2 - 3 months. If George is well enough to resume chemo it will be at a reduced dose. Surely that will reduce the effectiveness? Has anyone else had a reduced dose chemo and was it effective? Is the benefit/ risk ratio worth it?

George's PSA doubles every 4 weeks (currently 60) and we are both concerned that in 2 - 3 months time he won't be well enough for chemo anyway. Rock and a hard place...

User

Posted 18 Nov 2024 at 15:02

Hi Jacqui

I had a reduced docetaxel dose in infusions 2-6 back in 2018 after a bad reaction to dose 1, see my profile.

Infusion was 75% of the first dose. Pleased to report the final 5 doses were okay although truth be told not the favourite 4 months of my life.

User

Posted 20 Nov 2024 at 07:31

Reported herringburden for spam.

All their posts have links in them.

User

Posted 21 Nov 2024 at 13:37

Hi Jaqui, when I was put forward for Chemo , within 4 minutes I had an allergic reaction to the witches brew, so no Chemo for me. Although my PSA was more docile to your husbands I finished on Enza and the Oncologist said don’t worry we have a lot more brews in our cupboard, see my profile if you want more detail

Thinking of you both

User

Posted 21 Nov 2024 at 20:34

Thank you for your replies. It is helpful to know someone has had reduced dose chemo and it has worked.

Unfortunately George stopped responding to Enzalutamide and his 3 monthly injections, so chemo feels like our last hope. Fingers crossed George is well enough for at least reduced dose chemo. One dose of chemo had no effect on his PSA.

User

Posted 09 Jan 2025 at 16:43

Unfortunately George's health has deteriorated over the festive period. This, together with the possibility of further side effects of chemo, chemo is no longer an option anymore. We were told on Monday that there is no more oncology can do for George. He has been refered to the palliative care team for end of life care. Devastated and heartbroken.

User

Posted 09 Jan 2025 at 17:01

Hi Jacqui.

I'm so very sorry. I send you and George huge hugs.

User

Posted 10 Jan 2025 at 12:06

Hi Jacqui, Sorry to hear your sad news. Gentle Hugs Dave and Wendy

User

Posted 10 Jan 2025 at 15:00

Hello Jacqui

I am so sorry to read this awful news.

Hugs to you both.

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