What's the difference between FEC-D vs FEC-T vs FEC?

loving_mother · February 2011

I am wondering if there are specific instances that one of these drugs is given instead of the other, or if it is strictly a cost issue where FEC is the cheapest one?

Luah · February 2011

Loving-mother: D (doxetaxal) and T (taxotere or taxol) are roughly equivalent, added to the FEC regime (3 FEC then 3 D or T), usually in cases of aggressive cancers, positive nodes, triple negative etc. The D/T works differently on the cancer cells and has been shown to be highly effective. Obviously 3 FEC is less costly to administer than 3 FEC plus 3 D/T. Why do you ask?

loving_mother · February 2011

I am on 6 FEC, is this a good treatment

flannelette · February 2011

I did 6 FEC 2 years ago - I'm stage 2B. I notice in the calling all Canadians thread they seem to talk a lot about FECD or T. I'm wondering if this is a newer thing? I'm curious, too.

Luah · February 2011

loving_mother: You may want to ask your onc about the addition of a taxane (taxol or taxotere) to your FEC. See here for more information, scroll down... http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/ask_expert/2008_07/#q6

marjie · February 2011

I just finished FEC-D (3xFEC + 3xD).

sheuber · February 2011

Hi Luah - I believe FEC - D and T are the same thing (just different names for the same drug). On the sheet I got from my first appointment with the oncologist, he wrote I would be getting FEC - D. Than the sheet I got the day I started the "D" portion of the treatment is titled Taxotere. The FEC portion of the treatment is 3 separate drugs (1 through IV and 2 through a syringe). The Taxotere is given through an IV. They each fight cancer in a different way (depending on your diagnosis). BTW - we're neighbours! I live in Mississauga and went for my chemo treatments at St. Joes in Etobicoke. Right now I'm going through radiation at Princess Margaret. Where are you?

Luah · February 2011

Yes, you're right Sheuber. D is docetaxol (generic name for taxotere), equivalent to T which is taxol. They are both taxanes and work the same way.

D (taxotere) is usually teamed up with FEC, while T (taxol) often follows AC. AC is fairly equivalent to FEC (although A is harder on the heart).

I'm in central TO, and was treated at Sunnybrook. Good luck with the rads. It can be a grind going every day, but way easier to tolerate than chemo.

NannaBaby · February 2011

Here are some links to standard chemo regimes...

http://www.cancercare.on.ca/cms/One.aspx?portalId=1377&pageId=11137

http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/HPI/ChemotherapyProtocols/Breast/default.htm#advanced

I am triple neg too, and I believe a taxane is standard. It could be a cost/coverage thing too. I'd ask your onc. It depends on your age and overall health too.

Good Luck and Take Care

EmilyInOntario · February 2011

Marjie..I am on cycle 2 OF FEC-D..how did you find the SE's for FEC compared to D?

Lou10 · February 2011

I just found out I'm having FEC-D (followed by more surgery, then radiation, then hormone therapy). Would love to hear your experiences. I realize everyone reacts differently but it would be good to know a bit more about what to expect. Thanks.

What's the difference between FEC-D vs FEC-T vs FEC?

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