Pancreatic Cancer And Tarceva

My Mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about 11 months ago. My Dad just passed away October 20 from prostate cancer that had metastisized to the bone and elsewhere. It was a blessing he went so quickly at the end. My mother, during his final stages, became stronger and more supportive physcially, emotionally, and mentally than I ever thought possible. Now, with his passing, she has taken an immediate turn for the worse. I know she is in the final stages of her disease, with metastisis to the lungs. After his death, her doctor took her off of an experimental drug called Tarceva. The Tarceva has a plethora of potential side effects, and I think she had them all! Diarrhea was the worst (with sores in the mouth, no appetite, and skin rashes right behind). The diarrhea has never subsided. They started her on Iv's three days ago, and after three days stopped that, as the diarrhea was not under control. I would be interested to know if anyone has any ideas about stopping the diarrhea....I'll tell you, I think she would take a new attitude if she could only get that under control. We have tried the Immodiium and the Kaopectate. Neither had any lasting effect, but the combination staved the diarrhea for a few hours. I think she would try just about any suggested remedies. Any ideas?

Hi,
Regarding the severe diarrhea that you describe, has your mom gotten tests done to determine if this is c-difficile? It is an infection of the colon and has to be treated by antibiotics, even tho many times it is caused by antibiotics. If she hasn't been checked for that infection, it might be worthwhile to do that. The diarrhea caued by this infection can literally become life threatening if untreated. Hope this is helpful,
Good luck and prayers for your mom,
Cali

Sorry to hear about your Mom. Haven't any information for you, but I am praying. All God's blessings.

Hi,

I have not seen any recent posts – I hope your Mom is doing better now. I just wanted to let you know that I am taking the drug Tarceva and may be able to help answer some of your questions.

I broke out with the rash/acne on my face, chest and back after taking it for a week. The rash has subsided now, but I am still getting whiteheads on my face and head. The diarrhea is not a problem because I take pain pills that make me constipated so it kind of works out. I am also tired after taking it so I take the drug in the evening.

I have had this cancer for two years. At first life was a nightmare with diarrhea. What it is, is because part of the pancreas is not working or been taken away by surgery it means the proper stuff is not being produced any more. Once I was put onto this medication it changed everything!! it was astounding. (sorry if my diction is poor, it is late and i am under heavy medication - in my final stages etc)

The name of the drug is Creon 5000 (pancreatic extract) I take two tablets three times a day at meal times. I wasn't advised about this medication at first and really suffered. Get your Mum onto this and she will be a very happy lady indeed! Please let me know how it goes!

Regards,
LyndaL

I have had this cancer for two years. At first life was a nightmare with diarrhea. What it is, is because part of the pancreas is not working or been taken away by surgery it means the proper stuff is not being produced any more. Once I was put onto this medication it changed everything!! it was astounding. (sorry if my diction is poor, it is late and i am under heavy medication - in my final stages etc) The name of the drug is Creon 5000 (pancreatic extract) I take two tablets three times a day at meal times. I wasn't advised about this medication at first and really suffered. Get your Mum onto this and she will be a very happy lady indeed! Please let me know how it goes! Regards, LyndaL