Forum Discussion

gwen88's avatar
gwen88
Member
2 years ago

Medications for Chemo: Dexamethasone etc.

Hi All,
I’ll be starting my first chemotherapy, TCHP on Monday. My oncologist has prescribed me with 8mg Dexamethasone twice a day on the day before chemo and once daily for the next 3 days. On top of that, I’ll also be on anti-nausea meds: Netupitant and Palonosetron on the day of chemo. It just seems like so much! It freaks me out a little for taking so much steroid med. I’m wondering if I can try not taking Dexamethasone for my first chemo and see how I go? Has anyone done this? 
Thanks! 
chemotherapy
chemotherapy-side-effects
  • Afraser's avatar
    Afraser
    Member
    2 years ago
    I took the prescribed anti nausea meds (not so much though, mainly Dexamethasone) for my first four chemo doses (A/C). But when I experienced no nausea whatsoever, I begged off any more for the next 12 ( Paclitaxel). My oncologist was willing as long as I didn’t complain if I got sick. I didn’t get any nausea.  As there’s no way of knowing how you will react before you start, best to take the Dexamethasone for the first round, see how you go and then test a reduction thereafter.
  • arpie's avatar
    arpie
    Member
    2 years ago
    I think it would be Better to stick with what they are suggesting to start off with, @gwen88 .... and then see if you can adjust dosages later on, after your 2nd or 3rd dose of chemo - reducing it a bit each time to see if you then still become nauseous. 

    The idea being to prevent the nausea etc BEFORE it starts, rather than letting it get a hold & you being miserable & throwing up & maybe not able to keep the meds down after it kicks in xx

    Take care & all the best xx