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dak2's avatar
dak2
Member
9 years ago

Neulasta

Quick question for all you lovely ladies (and gents) out there.  Has anyone been offered the neulasta injection on chemo cycles 2+ and said "NO" they didn't want it due to concerns with side effects etc.  I understand that it is very good for boosting your white cells but I'm concerned that my sensitive system will say "enough" if I continue to put it under any more chemical cocktails.  My onco said everyone has had it when offered and strongly recommends the injection.

Any replies greatly appreciated.

Have a great day :)



7 Replies

  • Christina_55's avatar
    Christina_55
    Member
    9 years ago

    Hi everyone.  Last week ended up in hospital for Neutrapenia after Chemo 4.  Had the Pegfilgrastim injection on Tuesday. Gave it to myself.  Achy bones, but I was achy before. Onco gave me Endone.  Did sleep OK. Woke up tired, but will only take endone if I need it.  The aches seem to turn up when in bed.  Today has been OK>  I will have the next injection in Dec 17 before Xmas.  Don't want to be sick Xmas Day. My Neutrophils were zero, and because I had flu like symptoms I was isolated in hospital.  I didn't mind. I caught up on well deserved rest.  We never know if taking all of these meds are effective or a hinderance.  I guess we have to trust the doctors... Christina

    PS  Also don't jump when the phone rings and your cutting up veges.  HA HA

  • Brenda5's avatar
    Brenda5
    Member
    9 years ago
    I gave myself the injection after rounds 2, 3 and 4. Just go easy dicing up vegetables after you take the injection as it seemed to turn me into the energizer bunny and I am lucky I didn't cut my fingers off!
  • primek's avatar
    primek
    Member
    9 years ago
    Just wanted to  add that your white cell count will be lower prior next chemo so your risks are much higher and again with the next.  The side effects  really are just your body fighting infection...sort of early flu symptoms for a day or so. Something panadol really helps with.
  • Scared_Mum's avatar
    Scared_Mum
    Member
    9 years ago
    Agreed with Chris and Nadi if it is offered take it especially with Christmas just around the corner you dont want to spend it in hospital 

  • dak2's avatar
    dak2
    Member
    9 years ago
    Thanks, whilst I'm feeling good its hard to think of getting the infection, it most probably makes sense specially with Xmas celebrations just around the corner, just concerned what I'm putting my body thru
  • ChrissK's avatar
    ChrissK
    Member
    9 years ago
    Hi Dak, I agree with Nadi, I too was hospitalised after my 1st chemo with 0 neutrophils.... Take the injection as you don't want to end up in hospital....
  • Nadi's avatar
    Nadi
    Member
    9 years ago
    Hi Dak. I was hospitalised for six days after my first round of chemo with neutropenia. I was incredibly ill at this time. I was offered Neulasta for round 2 and took it. It was easier for my body to cope with the side effects from the neulasta than having to get  another infection and being neutropenic again. The bone pain from neulasta wasn't fun but it got controlled with naproxen tablets. I recommend it because getting an infection while being neutropenic can be life threatening.