adriamycin, cytoxan and herceptin

[ln123]

I will be starting chemo in a few weeks.  My cancer is stage 1, but her2 positive.  Along with a couple of other chemo drugs, My doctor has prescribed adriamycin and herceptin.  I am very concerned about taking these particular drugs because of the risk of heart problems.  I am 36 and in great health, just how concerned should I be?  

[japdip]

I'm sure your Oncologist has a good reason for prescribing these particular drugs; you might ask him/her and also discuss your reluctance to take them. I would think that your being in excellent health would be a plus when considering the drugs mentioned. Have a serious discussion before you start therapy and get a satisfactory explanation as to why these drugs rather than some others available. I 'm sure they wouldn't have been prescribed if the risk were greater than normal.     Regards .....

[rindaaa]

I can totally understand your concern.  I went through all the same things...its overwhelming and scary to say the least.  You are stage I but your also Her2/neu positive.  As you know that is a very aggressive breast cancer.  And not to scare you...but its usually more aggressive the younger you are.  So he's wanting to hit it hard so it doesn't come back.  

I'm a stage IIIA, Her2/Neu, 3+++, Er & Pr positive, 5 positive nodes.  I'm now a almost 4 yr survivor.  They have lots of great drugs to kick your cancer into the twilight zone.  But this is the time right now to do yourself a BIG favor...take the time to get a 2nd and even 3rd opinion.  Thats really important.  Your oncologist should have NO problems with this...and most insurance companies usually recommend it.  Make sure you GO OUT of Network...meaning don't see another oncologist in the same building.  Find an oncologist that specializes in JUST breast cancer.  There are several good options for Her2 breast cancer.  AC followed by TH.   There's also TCH (Taxotere, Carbpotin and Herceptin)  They are using that more now then ever before.  The results of it is almost as good as using Adiramycin.  And alot less risk to your heart.  

Anyway...my best advice is please get those 2nd and 3rd opinions.  You have time...your stage 1...don't let them scare you by saying you don't have time to weigh all your options.  This is important for you...and your piece of mind.  You have a right to be part of the decisions and have everything explained to you.  Be pro-active through your care...weigh your options...you will know whats right when you hear it.  Hang in there...you will do alright...get that 2nd opinion.

Rinda

[SueYoung55]

Because of your young age and a breast cancer diagnosis that is triple positive, I'm going to suggest that you get tested for BRCA 1 & 2 genetic mutations. Please see if you can get an appointment with a BRCA savvy genetic counselor at your local hospital so they can explain it all to you. Very important especially given your age.

Another useful research tool is www.facingourrisk.org where you will find the latest on the BRCA genetic mutations and also information for people with strong family history of breast and ovarian cancers.

Best wishes.