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Jacqui's avatar
Jacqui
Member
14 years ago

Xeloda side effects

Hi Ladies,

Just looking for some advice on how to manage the side effects of Xeloda. I am on my 4th day of this drug. Day 1-2 were uneventful, Day 3 I vomitted and felt lousy and now I have terrible burning in my stomach and oesophagus. Taking Maxalon for nausea with good effect, and mylanta and Nexium for burning, only effective for a short time. Anyone got any good ideas. Driving me crazy cant sleep!

Thanks, Jacqui

2 Replies

  • MandaMoo's avatar
    MandaMoo
    Member
    14 years ago

    Hi Jacqui 

    I'm sorry you are having yucky side effects.  I haven't taken xeloda but had oesophagitis initially on my current treatment.  I did have a dose reduction but that was more to do with my blood counts.  We got my oesophagitis under control with nexium - I take 20mg morning and night - this worked better for me than 40mg once a day.  I also take Nizac with it (I think this is similar to Zantac) - this was recommended by the pharmacist and does seem to keep it under control.  (Mine was so bad I had internal bleeding) I also take an antifungal for internal thrush - can be associated with the burning.  

    If you are intor trying some natural alternatives - drinking slippery elm can help to coat your oesophagus and intenstines before your eat.  Sitting up in bed as has already been mentioned may also help.

    With the symptoms you are describing I would be getting in touch with either your GP or oncologist - whichever you have the better relationship with to try and get the side effects under control.

    Take care,

    Amanda xx

     

  • Chris's avatar
    Chris
    Member
    14 years ago
    Hi Jacqui, I haven't taken Xeloda, but wonder if your night sleeping might be improved by sleeping on your back and raised up on several pillows. That would help prevent the reflux that the Nexium and mylanta are trying to prevent. By sleeping on an incline, gravity will help keep the acid in your stomach and not your oesphagus, so hopefully preventing that horrible burning you are experiencing. I hate sleeping on my back, but have done so, almost sitting, due to reconstructive breast surgery, for the last 4 weeks. I have become use to it, though long for the day when I can sleep on my side again. Love Chris xx