The Cancer Survivors Network (CSN) is a peer support community for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends! CSN is a safe place to connect with others who share your interests and experiences.

Sleep

Etzek123
Etzek123 CSN Member Posts: 1
in Prostate Cancer #1

does anyone else have a hard time going to sleep after chemo and how do they overcome it. Thanks

Like Care

Comments

  • Max Former Hodgkins Stage 3
    Max Former Hodgkins Stage 3 CSN Member Posts: 3,831 Member
    edited September 2017 #2
    Which ?

    What chemo drugs are you receiving, Etzek ?   Are you on Prednisone or some other steroid ? 

    Prednisone is given (in pill form) with the most common Prostate Cancer chemo drugs (Taxotere, Jevtana, Zytiga ), and is in effect a stimulant, and may be the source of your insomnia.

    Prednisone is not an actual "chemo" itself, but rather assists the chemo in doing its job:  It is used to prevent or reduce nausea, swelling, inflamation, or to increase appetite or energy levels in patients, or it can be for all of the above.

    If you are getting Prednisone, it is likely the cause, since most actual chemos cause extreme fatigue and weakness rather than sleeplessness.  But DO NOT reduce dosing on your own, ask your doctor about the issue first.  It is critical to take Prednisone, if you are on it, exactly as perscribed and directed by the doctor.   

    Other common side-effects of Prednisone are agitation, hostility, nervousness, jitteriness, mental confusion.

    max

    Like Care

Discussion Boards