Looking for information regarding immunotherapy infusion : keytruda

Dee26

I am looking for some information regarding immunotherapy treatments . I am inquiring for my husband. He had prostate cancer & bladder cancer. Prostrate removal & cystectomy in 2023. Now the cancer is back & the Dr would like to try immunotherapy & possible chemo. I would like to know about reactions & any other advice for help for him. Thank you

barehead

In general, immunotherapy can cause fewer side effects than systemic chemotherapy. You can look up specific side effects by doing an internet search for the specific immunotherapy drug and the specific chemotherapy drug(s) being proposed. Then, talk with the oncologist about the treatments and which one is being recommended.

You can look up typical treatment plans (based on stage, grade, and organ) at nccn.org.

You can get excellent curated medical information about bladder cancer at bcan.org.

I had systemic chemo after the final biopsy from my cystectomy revealed a progression in the stage. Cisplatin and gemcitabine were the primary drugs. Side effects of nausea, hearing changes, taste changes, and mood swings eventually passed about 3 months after completion. Some neuropathy in my foot remains, and it took about 3 years to move beyond anemia.

Hope this helps.

Dee26

https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1722266#Comment_1722266

This information is most certainly helpful & is very much appreciated. There is an extreme difference from reading articles on this issue than hearing from someone who actually experienced it. No comparison, and actually quite relieving to hear that you recovered quite well from your issues. Thanks again for all of the information.

https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/comment/1722266#Comment_1722266