Chemo Side Effects

[Betty]

I have been undergoing chemotherapy for the past 2 1/2 years for metatastic breast cancer.  Since Feb I have been on Taxotere and Herceptin.  Side effects from the Taxotere include tearing of the eyes and twitching around the eyes, especially between the eyelids and eyebrows.  Neither my oncologist or eye doctor can offer any helpful remedies.  Have you any suggestions to help alleviate this?

[cupcake]

My Dad's girlfriend (49) was diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few years ago.  She has been through several types of radiation and chemo treatments  ( 7 I beleive) but the cancer has now spread throughout her body.  She has a severe tumor in her stomach and finds it not only extremely painful but is unable to eat much.  A couple bites of a cracker is all she can eat at once.  The cancer is quickly taking over.  The doctors have given her a few months to live.  They are now suggesting she take Taxotere.  She does not want to take it because she is warn out and just plain TIRED.  What suggestions/inspiration can you give me for her and what information can you tell me about your experiences with Taxotere?  Thank You!

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Betty, I did check regarding helpful tips or remedies for your symptoms.  I could not come up with any specific suggestions.  However, the point was brought up about the possibility of other medications having an effect that in combination with your chemotherapy may be making these particular symptoms worse. Some common anti-nausea medications such as prochlorperazine (Compazine),or metoclopramide(reglan), could be the culprit.  If in fact these are part of your regimen perhaps there could be a change to something that would not contribute to the problem. You could review your medications with your doctor, be sure to also mention any over the counter medications or herbal supplements you may be taking.

[jak]

Hi...I was treated with Taxotere also.  I had really bad tearing eyes that drove me crazy.  I guess the Taxotere destroys your mucas membranes so you nose might run and your eyes tear.  I tried all kinds of things and the thing that helped me the most was called "artificial tears".  They told me they were watering because they were dry...didn't seem like it though!  Who knows..but you might try it.  I had a lot of bad side effects with the Taxotere, but it is supposed to be a really good chemo drug.  Best wishes for good health!  Jane