gemzar vs. gemzar and cisplatin

Discussion Board Forums Chemotherapy & More gemzar vs. gemzar and cisplatin

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  • #91185
    minzzi
    Spectator

    Hi,

    We decided to give it a go to chemo after a year and a half of trying various alternative treatments on our own. Initially the ICC of my bf was 7cm and unresectable of course, and has since grown to approximately double the size (13cm). Stent was replaced last summer due to cholangitis (which was followed by pancreatitis).
    Anyway, been through 3 rounds of Gem-Cis now and waiting for results of the CT scan that was taken yesterday. He has had very few side effects, mild nausea after first cycle, and lack of appetite which is always present.
    We did ask if the cisplatin could be left out as did read from lot of places that it is nasty. They agreed to lower the cisplatin dose by 20% but that was it. Throughout the treatment the blood tests have been “great” according to onc but in my opinion not. And just generally not satisfied with the national cancer treatment here in Finland..
    I was trying to ask about SIRT which is available here but apparently not to all(?) I guess I just need to gather some real evidence and papers next time to get them to think this case a bit more.

    I am also interested in the gene paneling, where are they available, and how would they be used to find a suitable treatment? For us they did do some small paneling from the biopsy that was taken in 2014 and nothing showed up there..

    #91184
    marions
    Moderator

    Cisplatin is a harsh drug and and particularly difficult on the kidneys. Definitely not a cost issue.

    Hugs,
    Marion

    #12038
    silverkitties
    Spectator

    What are the reasons why an oncologist would recommend gemzar alone in chemo–as opposed to a combination of gemzar and cisplatin, which is supposed to be more effective?

    Does the former cost less?

    Thanks.

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