Triweekly FEC/T versus DD AC, weekly taxol

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Luah
Luah Member Posts: 1,541
Triweekly FEC/T versus DD AC, weekly taxol

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  • Luah
    Luah Member Posts: 1,541
    edited November 2009

    Hi ladies:  I'm trying to decide between these two options, after meeting with my oncologist today:  3 x FEC, then 3 x taxotere (triweekly) versus 4 x AC (dense dose), then 12 x taxol (weekly). 

    1. Do any of you know of any recent studies comparing the effectiveness of these two for triple negs?  (I haven't come up with anything so far)

    2.  What can I expect in terms of side effects and when/for how long on each of these regimens?  I would expect dense dose gives you very little uptime... for those of you doing it, what are your worst days, worst side effects?  Anyone keeping up a work schedule?

    Would appreciate hearing your experiences.  I've learned so much from all of you already!  Thanks in advance.. 

  • lassie11
    lassie11 Member Posts: 1,500
    edited November 2009

    I don't know of any comparative studies, but did experience the once every three weeks FEC - T. I think it is fairly standard in Ontario. One thing for sure is that we all react differently.

    Both halves of the treatment had about a week of blur - tired, not thinking well, not much good for anything - and then various other side effects. The second week was better and by the third week things were pretty good.  I used the third week to prepare for the first one or two of the next round by shopping, cooking and freezing things, etc. I also used the whole process as a reason to hire a biweekly cleaning service. Excellent decision - no point in using the good days to do housework.  There are more interesting things to do in life.

    As I am retired, going to work was not a consideration, but I don't know how any one could continue work - especially if they have children at home. There are other side effects, some just a nuisance, some more significant - but each of us react differently to the whole thing. Pretty much everyone loses their hair a bit short of two weeks after the first treatment so it is good to organize a wig ahead of time if you will want one (I did) and maybe a short haircut when your hair begins to fall out.

    I thought the "T" part was easier than the FEC. Others have found quite the opposite.  In any event, having time to rest without pressure throughout is pretty important.

    The bottom line is that no one can tell you the exact side effects you will have for sure.

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