My onc has advised six months of capecitabine as there were live cancer cells showing in pathology report after mastectomy. i’ve already had 8 rounds of chemo pre-op (4x EC & 4x Paclitaxel). i’m due to start 15x radiotherapy in a couple of weeks. i had been informed by consultant that the surgery was successful and no extra chemo was needed. i’m very confused with the conflicting information and worried how i will cope with taking the tablets daily when i’m supposed to be returning to work next week. Oncology have given me two weeks to decide to go ahead or not. Has anyone else been in the same position? i’d be kicking myself if i refuse it and then the cancer returns but unsure if i can face the SE all over again.
Hi, I was the same as you with worrying about having yet more chemo. Because I was triple neg, large tumour and incomplete response (2.5 active left from 7.5 at start), capecitabine was suggested. It was explained that it only increases your chances by a very small %, but, like you, I felt I would never forgive myself if it came back and I hadn’t tried. I’m on week 3 of cycle 3 and have not really had any side effects. I had serious skin problems after docetaxyl(?spelling) so have been given masses of Pliazon Plus cream every time I talk to the nurse which I use religiously. My soles are a bit tender this week and I think I’m more tired than usual, taste is a little odd but nothing like before, but that’s all! My hair is still growing back fairly fast and I’m carrying on as normal. Obviously the effects are cumulative but at least I’m halfway and know I’ve done everything I could. Hope this helps as I couldn’t find much information anywhere. All the very best with your decision. Sue
Hi, exact same position Lucy, oral chemo was never mentioned to me, chemo first, then operation then radiotherapy. Had always being really positive going through IV chemo and op, then to have it landed on me about oral chemo. I gave it a chance and lasted 2.5 days before i ended up in hospital with chest pains, severe dizziness, motion sickness, blistered hands. just trying to find out what my options could be if I don’t go back on Capecitabine and is it worth it. Had a pressty good reponse to IV chemo, i feel like going back and asking for double mastectomy, as I wasn’t given full treatment options to start with, big hugs xx
What did you decide?
ive been offered it but because of Christmas and a booked holiday ( I thought the treatment was all over) they have said it is preventative. I don’t know whether to delay till the beginning of feb or start on the 27 of December!