I was stage 4 unknown primary – wanted the docs to be as aggressive as they could just short of killing me so they could kill off the cancer. Had modified RND, Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Erbitux and Taxol, and 33 rounds of radiation – not an unusual treatment. I’m six years out and have some dings from the treatment but would do it again. Nausea was the worst for me, they gave me Compazine and Ataivan (not sure of spelling) alternating every 4 hours – still had nausea but perhaps it would have been worse without the drugs. Radiation was tough but I forced myself to swallow (had a Peg tube as a backup and used it to supplement my eating). You might want to check the attache link – I’m trying to raise funds for SPOHNC, a great support organization for head and neck cancer patients and caregivers. Wishing you the best!! http://www.indiegogo.com/head-and-neck?a=1034285
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Regimen Information
For Cisplatin + radiation, including Side Effects
Cisplatin + radiation
Drugs in this Regimen:
How Cisplatin + radiation chemotherapy is given and possible side effects.
Cisplatin + radiation for the treatment of Head and Neck Cancer
Cisplatin + Radiation is used in the treatment of head and neck cancer.
MOST COMMON SIDE EFFECTS OF CISPLATIN + RADIATION
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Infection
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Mouth Sores
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Nausea & Vomiting
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Neuropathy
For more information, see the 'Expert Resources' tab below.
Community Responses
Often, the most helpful information regarding treatment side effects comes not from clinical brochures, but rather from other patients like you. We've collected the most helpful community resources to help you prepare for the side effects and coping tips for your chemotherapy regimen.
What side effects did you experience while on this medication?
The following have been voted the 3 most helpful responses to this question.
I had cisplatin,5FU,and radiation therapy all at the same time. I had many side effects at the time. Cerebellar toxicity, mouth sores, and many others. I have been in remission for several years but have developed stenosis of the esophagus, lack of saliva,inability to swallow properly,severe trismus, very labile blood pressure. The other night my B.P. went from 204 to 53 within a half hour..This was the result of Baro Reflex Failure. Also,I have numbness of my chin and left side of my face.The more time goes by the sicker I get. I also frequently get bacterial pneumonia due to aspiration. Yuk Also all nutrtion has to via my feeding tube. Also, ataxia getting more severe. I get fatigued very rapidly.
Enough whining Dave
I had cisplatin,5FU,and radiation therapy all at the same time. I had many side effects at the time. Cerebellar toxicity, mouth sores, and many others. I have been in remission for several years but have developed stenosis of the esophagus, lack of saliva,inability to swallow properly,severe trismus, very labile blood pressure. The other night my B.P. went from 204 to 53 within a half hour..This was the result of Baro Reflex Failure. Also,I have numbness of my chin and left side of my face.The more time goes by the sicker I get. I also frequently get bacterial pneumonia due to aspiration. Yuk Also all nutrtion has to via my feeding tube. Also, ataxia getting more severe. I get fatigued very rapidly.
Enough whining Dave
This discussion needs your voice!
What were the specific side effects that you experienced while taking this medication? How did you manage them?
What coping tips would you give to new patients on this regimen?
This discussion needs your voice!
What do you wish you had known before taking this medication? What information would you like to pass on to patients who are beginning this medication?