Folfox 4

I will probably begin an adjuvant therapy with Folfox in 3 weeks. (port infusion). 1 day in the clinic and then two days with home infusion thru port. this will be every two weeks for 6 months. (Whew). My question is this: after the 3 day infusions and a possible "bad side effects day or two", will I feel a little better and more chipper towards the next no-treatment week? Thanks so much.

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  FOLFOX is a chemotherapy regimen which includes a combination of intravenous Oxaliplatin, Leucovorin, and Fluorouracil given as a continuous infusion over 2 days (not 3).  From my experience in using this regimen in colorectal cancer patients, it's remarkably well tolerated.  The adverse effects are due to the Oxaliplatin and Fluorouracil (I have discussed this in an earlier post I sent you) but these are usually mild.  You should be able to recover and feel better a few days after the chemotherapy.  I have some patients receiving this medication who can report back to work two days after finishing the infusion.  You'll probably do just fine with this regimen.

[Synth]

Doc. Thanks so much. That is what i wanted to hear: "they do remarkably well". Synth