doxil and constipation

[susanmary24]

I had 6 cycles of Carbo/Taxol (neoadjuvant meaning prior to surgery), then surgery (stage 3), now 6 more cycles of Carbo/Doxil have been started. I have had 2 cycles and my most difficult side effect is terrible constipation. Anyone else deal with this? My Ca125 started at 780 now it is 12 (yipee Ill take it while I can), always going down at a good rate except for one month when it dropped only 8 points. I feel really fortunate to have made it through to this point and have read lots of questions and response on this site. This is my first time participating but I want to thank all who have shared your experiences!

[jane65]

Hi,
I've had lots of experience with constipation for almost 3 years that I've been dealing with OVCA.
I know that Miralax has to be taken regularly, I mix mine in juice, any kind is fine and I luckily don't notice a taste when I mix it in water. It's a stool softener, as is Colace.

Ive found that what works for me has been a cup of prune juice in the morning, Miralax during the day, 2 colace pills, a couple of prunes and hi fiber cereals. I know that fruits and vegetables are good for constipation, too.

I'm on Gemzar and find that a couple of days after treatment, I'm really in trouble. My oncologist told me to add Senecot S, one the night of chemo, and one in the morning.

Who'd have thought we'd be discussing this on a website, but this is the best place to come for any kind of advice.
Good luck!
Jane

[sheri938]

Senokot- this is what they gave me  to take after my surg as well as adv  natural methods of prunes etc,-
it helped the scar be less painful while healing
exercise -thank you guys

[Carcinista]

When I was on Doxil, I don't really remember constipation being a side effect, but then again I've been constipated for nearly every drug I've taken since this started. I find that early intervention (i.e., before I even take the drug that bungs me up) is key to avoiding more...how shall I say this, emergent methods. Miralax is good, but I have trouble drinking it (ick) and lean on Senokot: one 2x per day when things are moving along well, 2 tabs 2 or 3x per day when I need more help. I also make sure to eat plenty of dietary fiber: nuts, salad, veggies, and if you're not getting any exercise that makes an enormous difference. Even just a gentle 20-minute walk helps.

Good luck!
Sarah

[cjan222]

I haven't tried it myself but somewhere on this forum, someone recommended taking a dose of Miralax the day before and the day of chemo.  My next treatment is on Friday and I'll test it out and let you know how it goes.  Good luck!