KEYNOTE 522

Hi, I was on the Keynote 522 regimen in 2024. Finished chemo portion in October, still receiving Keytruda every 3 weeks. Chose BMX in November, TE in December.

I was diagnosed locally and Keynote 522 was presented. Traveled to a major city hospital for another opinion and they confirmed Keynote 522 was the standard and what they would use if I chose to be treated there. The timelines were slightly different. AC and Taxol every 2 weeks (major hospital) vs every 3 weeks.

I chose to be treated locally. My oncologist switched practices and I decided to stay. The 2nd local oncologist used the 2 week AC/Taxol regimen.

How can I help you?

MC

Hello,

Sorry for delay in getting back to you.

I will have a PORT placed on Tuesday, and begin with Keynote 522 on Thursday of next week.

Chemo once a week with the Keytruda added every three weeks. For 3 months.

Then 2 additional months on two other chemo drugs, again along with the Keytruda .

i guess what I want to know is how tough this road is going to be. I know everyone is different
But if you can offer me any insight into what to expect since you have been on it. I have done all the reading and my oncologist has educated me, but I have no knowledge from anyone who has personally been thru it.

Thanks in advance. Nancy

Hi Nancy,

Glad you have had good education by your medical team.

The regimen was physically exhausting. I spent most of the summer dozing in my chair with my feet up.

I began to lose hair after 2 weeks on Taxol. Nurse educator said it wouldn't happen until the AC portion. Did not cold-cap bcs limited ability at my center and $$$. Quickly got a cheap wig, later got a more expensive wig. Wore (and still do) a winter beanie cap at home and a bucket hat out unless I felt I needed my wig.

I iced my hand and feet to prevent neuropathy in the first portion of chemo. Developed a bit of neuropathy my feet, used menthol rub and now it seems to be gone.

My taste and smell was off. Nothing tasted "good." It has been a joy to experience delicious foods again!

I used the antinausea meds and they prevented vomiting.

The infusions left me exhausted and I slept quite a bit the first 2-3 days. As the weeks went by my biggest problem was exhaustion coupled with insomnia. Some nights I would just sit with my eyes closed, too tired to read.

Overall, it wasn't as bad as I had imagined. I hope your experience is the same or better.♥️

Maureen