Docetaxel

Hi Kas, I'm so sorry that you are having a bad time with taxotere. I had 4 rounds of this drug combined with cyclophosphamide at the begininig of this year. I didn't get any bad side effects, but some did arise. Hopefully for you the next time will not be too bad. There were certain things, like the bad achy joints that happened on day 4 and 5, that I controlled with panadol. My oncologist told me to take this every 4 hours, and to start taking it before the pain started. It made a huge difference to the intensity of the aches. Also for the nausea, he said to take all the medications provided even if I didn't think I might need it, as it is easier to prevent nausea than to treat it once it takes hold. I also did get a sore throat for the first 2 cycles, and of course thought I was getting a cold, but I didn't. I think it is what happens as all the cells shear off your mouth and throat area. I found that the Biotene mouth wash did help with this horrible irritation. The other thing that helped me, was using Refresh liquigel eyedrops when my eyes became really dry and teary towards the end of each cycle. They are very soothing, and seem to help reduce the amount of tearing. While on taxotere, I found that water tasted absolutely awful. Unfortunately you are still thirsty, and I discovered that the lemon flavoured non fizzy clear mineral waters that you buy in a pump pack bottle actually tasted pretty good. Only wish I had discovered this on the first cycle, and not the last one. I really hope it all settles down for you, and that you will be ok for Christmas. Love Chris xx