novelbean

My mother has had b.c. for 13 years.  She has had several re-occurances in different areas.  She has (again) been put on chemo and herceptin.  Her oncologist has prescribed "novelbean" (spelling???).  Please tell me how this works and what we can expect.  I'm fairly sure of the herceptin.  Also, she is extremely tired and exhausted all the time.  Any suggestions?

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Lindabug, The goal of treatment of breast cancer that has metastasized is control of the disease.  Navelbine or vinorelbine is a chemotherapy that has been found to have some activity in treating breast cancer.   It has been studied on its own and in combination with other chemotherapy medications.  It also has been studied in combination with herceptin for treatment of metastatic breast cancer.  This combination shows activity, in terms of control of the disease.  

The treatment is relatively well tolerated.  The most serious side effect being neutropenia (decrease of white blood cells) that leave one more susceptible to infection.  So blood counts will be watched closely, and treatments may be held at times to allow for recovery of the blood count.  Other side effects of Navelbine are possible constipation, neuropathy which is reversible when the medication is discontinued, hair loss