CPT-11 and Hiccups

My husband is having CPT-11 and Avastin infusions every other week.  He just added the CPT-11 two infusions ago, after the last MRI indicated some progression.  He had been on Avastin/Temodar since May - we had pushed for Avastin in addition to the standard of care before progression due to his youth and strength and based on a recommendation from Duke.  Well since we added CPT-11, the next couple of days following the infusion, he has terrible hiccups.  I know he had this issue following his resection also, but I was surprised it came back after the new chemo.  Has anyone else seen this and have any remedies?  He broke down and tried the spoonful of sugar remedy I found online (he likes to eat well), but it didn't work. Thanks!

Bad hiccups is really much worse than most people realize. I know some people get them. I hope it means something is working?

I think there are breathing techniques that are as effective (meaning, no promises) as anything. It has to do with calming spasms in the diaphragm. Hmmm, maybe a muscle relaxant would help.

Hope and courage ~
Sarah

mother of Andy 27 dx gbm/pnet 1/09

Is your husband on Decadron?  Hiccups is a known side effect of steroids.  If not, it's possible that they are giving him Decadron during his infusions.  Some doctors do that.  You might want to check and see.  That could be your answer.

My husband had hiccups when on the steroid, too. I also remember my uncle (may he rest in peace) having hiccups when he was first dx with his brain tumor but didn't know at the time that it was his meds. 

I agree with the Decadron comments. Tim gets hiccups when on Decadron. He takes Thorazine for them... if not, he'd go crazy...