Is it Possible to Take a 1 Week Break from Tarceva?

TomM1956728

Hello,

 

My 88 year old mother has esophageal cancer and, since she can no longer tolerate chemo, she has been taking Tarceva for almost 3 and a half months. 

 

The latest PET/CT Scan of September 25, 2013 showed that the tumor in the esophagus had slightly increased in size. 

 

However, the cancer in the lymph nodes in the throat, chest and lungs have decreased.

 

She is having a lot of difficulty with fatigue and appetite, and some pain. 

 

I believe that Tarceva is partly responsible for her fatigue and lack of appetite. 

 

I believe someone mentioned that it is possible to stop taking Tarceva for a few days or even a week, and resume taking Tarceva after she gains some strength and energy.  I heard that, in the long run, that would not adversely affect the outcome of her treatment.

 

Is it possible to stop Tarceva for a few days or a week – in order to improve her energy and appetite - without causing the cancer to become more active?

 

I would greatly appreciate your advice and thoughts.

 

Tom 

 

 

Dawn50

Talk to the Doctor

I suggest you talk to the Oncologist. He is the only one, along with your Mom, who can decide what is the best action to take. At 88 I'm impressed that your Mom is tolerating it well other than the fatigues, appetite issues. My husband of 52 barely survived 30 days on it!

Keep the faith