Hi all my name is Louise I was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer last year and commenced on Palbociclib which unfortunately has now been changed to capecitabine due to increased markers and spread to spine and liver. I have been suffering terribly with hormonal flushes etc and already taking Venlaflaxine for anxiety. Recently due to pain my consultant has given me morphine patches 5mg to wear which I have been doing. The flashes and now constant sweating has occurred. I have read the two should not be taken together is this correct. Please help in need of a solution and some relief from feeling constant overheating. Thanking you in advance.
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Hi @louise17 ,
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Welcome To the forum @louise17. I’m so sorry you are having such an uncomfortable time .If you’d like a bit of moral support from others going through treatment you could also post in the Living with secondary breast cancer > Supporting each other and sharing experiences section of the forum . There is also a private group . Hoping you feel more comfortable soon x
Hi Louise17,
Thanks for your message. It sounds as if you are having a difficult time with hot flushes from your treatment for secondary breast cancer.
The British National Formulary states that venlafaxine and morphine can have similar effects on the body and should be used together with caution. As you have mentioned an increase in sweating since starting morphine patches, is important you speak with your treatment team about this as soon as possible so they can monitor you for symptoms and consider alternative options if necessary to treat your symptoms.
Hot flushes are the most commonly reported menopausal symptom due to breast cancer treatment, and many women contact us describing the difficulties they are experiencing with them. The frequency and severity of hot flushes vary from person to person. For most women they will fade over time and become less severe, but for some they can really affect their quality of life.
We know that there are different things that help with hot flushes. You can speak with your breast care nurse or treatment team to discuss possible options for managing hot flushes. Your GP may also be able to help. You may want to ask about a referral to specialist menopause clinic where you can get further advice and information about coping with menopausal symptoms.
We have a range of services for people living with secondary breast cancer that you may be interested in.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
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Natasha
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