Doxil chemo

[Trisha58]

I have had 2 treatments of Doxil and it has really, really worked well for me.  My CA 125 count dropped from 620 to 63 after only 1 treatment.  My question is I have broken out with a rash on my legs, tummy, back, backs of legs and I wanted to know if anyone had treatment ideas for the rash?  I have been taking Benadryl, and I got some Aveeno oatmeal bath.  Will the rash go away when the treatments are done?  I am getting ready to go on a cruise in mid-June and I am also supposed to have another treatment before I go.  I am actually thinking of postponing the treatment until after I get back because I feel like the rash will get even worse after another treatment.  Any helpful advice would be appreciated.  Thanks.

[crecco]

  Trish,
     The others are right. Having your treatments and having them when scheduled are very important. Delays in treatments could affect the job they are supposed to do. I understand that you are looking forward to the cruise, but the chemo is much more important. With Doxil there may be directions about being in the sun as you are supposed to avoid very hot water also. You do need to talk to your Dr about the rash and any recommendations he has about going on the cruise.
  I did not get a rash from the doxil but I did get hand-foot syndrome and believe me that is no picnic. So make sure that you do all that the Dr tells you.
  No matter what, you can still have a great time on your cruise. Just take the necessary precautions when you go.
    Chris

[ladyjogger31]

I was on Doxil for 5 treatments and had to stop because it stopped working. I had the worse side effects from it. Usually the ca 125 goes up until the 3rd or 4th round of Doxil so don't be alarmed, but your didn't. Be very careful of wearing anything that rubs, no bra, hot water, heat from cooking and all the things that can cause the rash and hand/foot syndrome. I had a bad sunburn effect under my arms , that cracked and peeled. It was really bad. Also, had a bad rash on my thighs. The Gyn/Onc finally prescribed Prednisone for me. I could only take a tepid bath or shower. I use to ice my hands and feet during infusion and suck on ice chips. Thank God I never got the hand and foot syndrome. Also the original Eurcerin Creme worked the best for me, along with bag balm. As for it working, I heard a lot of good results , it has put women in remission for a long time, unfortunately that wasn't the case for me. I am a stage 3c and now am on Gemzar. May this chemo kick it in the butt!! Hugs and Prayers, Terry

[Teresa222]

Trisha,
Make sure you go to my Profile page and scroll down to my Journal and read the information I have profided concerning my Doxil treatments.  The drug accumulates. I thought after the first three treatments, that this was a breeze.  Then...the side effects started hitting me.  I sure hope you don't have the problems I had, but you might want to be aware of what CAN happen on the treatments. I would hate for you to get out on a cruise somewhere and begin having problems. Especially, the blockages.....
What have you decided to do?
Teresa

[marie3B]

I agree with Teresa.  Getting the treatment as scheduled is important, especially since it seems to be doing the job.  I am off schedule due to blood counts and although I am relieved to get a break, I am at the same time worried about the delay in my chemo.  Marie

[shewrites]

And by the way please tell the doctor about the cruise.  He may have some recommendations about being in the sun.   The sun might not mix with your chemo.  

[jane65]

Hi Trisha,
The first thing you must do tomorrow is to call your oncologist to tell him about your side affects.
We always advise anyone with a problem to call and get medical advice from the docor who has dealt with the problem repeatedly.

I agree with Teresa, you're dealing with your life, and postponing treatment is a serious thing to do, especially if it seems to be woking.

Please call your doctor and let us know what he prescribes for you.

Jane

[Teresa222]

The treatment is more important than a cruise Trisha.  As the Doxil treatments progress, so will the side effects if you are like most of us.  If you will do a search or look on my Profile, you will find a lot of information about Doxil and it's side effects. I had them all and it was unpredictable as to when the problems would arise.
You have my best wishes for continued success with Doxil.  It works, but it does have it's problems just like all the other toxic chemo treatments.
Teresa