Topotecan Chemotherapy

Any one of you sweeties or your family members taken Topotecan?

I start tomorrow on 3 days of it and repeat every 21 days for 4 cycles than hace scans. Just curious how the side effects were. I know they can be different for everyone but just want an idea of what to expect, look out for, etc.

I have recurrent Platinum Resistant Ovarian/Peritoneal Cancer in my lymph nodes.

Sure would love to hear from you.

Hugs,

Ann

Dear Ann,

 I just started taking Topotecan.  I will get it once a week for three weeks and then have one week off.  Iv'e only had one infusion and I did not have any side effects.  I too, have recurrant ovarian cancer.  I have been fighting this battle for two years.  I was only in remission for about 5 months.  I also deal with ascites ( bloating in my abdomen). 

I hope the best for you.  Take Care, Deb

Ann,

 Good luck with your new treatment.  Please come back and give us a reaport.  It is always good to get more information as I might be on it one of these days if my current chemo - Gemzar/Carbo - quits working.

Gayle

Hi Gayle-

 Not having a very good time so far. Started with constipation which is supposed to be normal for this chemo but treated it and got world's worst diarrhea to the point that I had to go to ER last night from heart palpitations and dizzy spells from electrolyte imbalance/ dehydration. I was trying to drive myself home from a support group and had so many spells I pulled off the freeway and called my husband to come pick me up. ER gave me lots of IV fluids and I got to go home around 11:30. Hours later the worst "D" yet. Almost had to mop down entire bathroom =(.

And we are supposed to go off camping on Monday. Yikes.

Ann

Hello Gayle,

I also had terrible diahrrea with Topotecan.  I had to plan all my outings for hours after breakfast it was so bad.  I became very familiar with every bathroom from my home to every destination.    I found that IMMODIUM or the  generic brand Walmart carries for Anti Diarreal is a tiny light green caplet easy to swallow and it works wonders for several hours.  Start with only one and  then increase to two if necessary.  Don't worry if you get constipated try Plum Smart juice only drink a half of  small glass at first it works wonders without any pills they have one with extra fiber also.

The Topotecan didn't work for me after 6 cycles.  I am now on Doxil had only one infusion go for blood test next Wed to see if it is working?

Joni2079

Thanks for the information.  I must say, it doesn't sound good.  I hope my current chemo works for a long time - Gemzar/Carbo.  It seems to be doing a good job, but has its side effects too.

Gayle

Hi, Ann here again. I just had my first of 3 in a row of my second cycle. Hair pretty much left my head in the last 4 days. Had it buzzed off after chemo today. Feeling strong and no bone pain from the Neupogen which is to help maintain White Cell levels. Still fighting the "D" but made it through a week's camping with no "accidents". Took my depends and Immodium with. Went on short hikes and a mule ride OK.

Bless you all on this journey also.

Ann