Fec-t docetaxel do I need to take steroids?

Dunepenge

hi, I'm starting docetaxel in three weeks time and I'm already scared of SE from steroids! I've learned after the first session of Fec that main issues I experienced were caused by them. Heart Palpitations, stomachaches, horrible winds and rosacea skin flare ups (I couldn't leave the house because I looked like a monster). Did anyone had the dosage reduced or at least adjusted to them

Lolis197138

sorry you had side effects from the steriods. I was told that they protect you from an allergic reaction. Talk to your MO about your SE.

Hope you MO can change some of them for you.

Hugs

stephincanada

Hi,

I had taxotere at 75% strength and asked my M.O. if I could reduce the steroid dose proportionately. He said that because the steroid prevents an allergic reaction, I couldn't reduce the dose. Try taking a sleeping pill to help you sleep during those days. It isn't fun but you will get through it.

Best of luck.

Stephanie

Dunepenge

Thanks for your response. I will definitely check this with my oncologist. Hopefully he can change the dosage for me.

Lizzy1981

I did dose dense AC and dose dense taxol. I had concerns about steroids too and my MO was fine with me only getting 4cc (or mg?) in my iv with chemo. They normally give 20cc. I didn't take any oral steroids. They give you plenty of Benadryl with the taxol to prevent allergic reactions. I was completely fine with the reduced dose and had no side effects from the small amount of steroids. I got my chemo at MD Anderson so they know what they are doing. Good luck. I was scared to do chemo but it turned out to not be nearly as bad as I thought.