Doc says I'm now anemic

[Debra100]

I was just told to start taking Procrit weekly injection. How long does it normally take for you to start feeling better? I'm so tired its hard to walk from room to room. I started last Wed just not sure when i'll start feeling better?

Help please

Me Deb

[Debra100]

Thank you for the comments. I Started Study drugs day 1, with Riba and Peg. Then week 5 started to take Boceprevir its now been 8 weeks and 8 week bloodwork showed virus cleared but hemoglobin dropped 9.7. So good news and bad news all in one day.  This is now week 2 of the Procrit injection Weds - can't take it the same day as Peg.

I needed the Funny story of the Christmas dinner - This is ME falling asleep for any reason now.

Merry Christmas ALL
Deb

[nygirl7]

Just said you dont feel bad Debra i went to our company Christmas party while I was on tx - fell asleep right on the table (pretty sure everyone must have assumed I was drinking;) but at least I made an effort.

Just take it easy and make an appearance if you feel up to it.  If you don't, skip it there will be plenty more holiday parties to come!

Good luck
Deb

[frijole]

Debra - my hemoglobin has been at 9.7 for 2 weeks so I know how you feel.  Mine dropped to 9.4 so it has come up some, but not much considering I have taken procrit for 4 weeks now.  I am beginning to suspect (for me) it is just like ny girl said about her treatment.  It may be keeping it from going lower, but doesn't seem to be bringing it up much.  

So you may or may not see much of a change before your party on the 8th.  All you can do is go, but leave early if you are wiped out.  

I am trying to figure out what you are on -- you are in a trial, but taking Boceprevir and what else?  You are on week 5 - did they do a lead in?  When did they start the trial drug and what is it?  Did you become anemic the very first week you took the Boceprevir? Sorry for all the questions.

[Debra100]

Mine is now at 9.7 took 40,000 last wed they also dropped Riva ...Thanks for the information. I would like to attend a Holiday party on the 8th of Dec...  Juts not sure If i'll be able to feel better by then.

[nygirl7]

2 - 6 weeks depending on how much they are giving you and how  your body reacts to it. For example they started me on 40,000 1x a week but had to up me after a few weeks to 2 x 40,000 a week because while it stopped me from dropping further - it didn't raise my hemo.

If you can get to around 10.5 you will feel 'alright' but never fully and completely better - that comes later after you are done with your course of treatment.