Info on Herceptin for longer than 1yr

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CAZBELFAST
CAZBELFAST Member Posts: 3

Hi to all fellow fighters, Im hoping ive found the site that can help me arm myself with loads of info....

Im currently on my second round with Herceptin, First time round i was on Herceptin Trial (2004), i managed to stay clear until (2007).

I am now on my 10th cycle with 8 more left before run out time, this has promped me to consider asking for a furthur year of herceptin based on me having relapse.

I am aware that current trials based on 2yr vs 1yr have not been released but i am willing to risk all for a possible extention on my relapse time.......

Hope this makes sense.

Comments

  • Sassa
    Sassa Member Posts: 1,588
    edited March 2009

    Cazbelfast,

    Your treatment is different than here in the states.  In the USA, if you have mets, you are kept on herceptin until it is no longer effective or other side effects force you off the drug.

  • LittleFlower
    LittleFlower Member Posts: 405
    edited March 2009

    Hi Cazbelfast,

    In the US, if you are early stage (1,2,3) you receive herceptin for one year.  pretty standard.  as far as i know the 2 year results are not out yet.  if it's any consolation, some danish studies showed 9 weeks was just as effective as one year! the other consideration is that herceptin can damage your heart and you really don't want to over do it and cause other problems for your future!

    Sorry you have to do this all over again!

    LittleFlower

  • CAZBELFAST
    CAZBELFAST Member Posts: 3
    edited April 2009

    Hi LittleFlower, Thank you so much for your reply,i do apologise for only getting back to you now, im not online very often....Ive arranged a consultation with my oncologist to discuss my chances of getting Herceptin for another year....i have a lot to weigh up when it comes to heart damage considering i have already had almost 2years of herceptin over a period of 5yrs.....



    Thank you again for your reply...and all the best for your future...

  • Denny123
    Denny123 Member Posts: 1,886
    edited April 2009

    Hi Cazbelfast,

     I have been on Herceptin for over 5 years and it has kept my liver mets in remission now for over 4 1/2 years.

    My heart Ejection Fraction is still in the 50's so my heart is fine.

    Denise

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