I started Gaba’ a few weeks ago for the increasing neuropathy caused by Ibrance replacing 10 years of Letrozole I’d been taking since diagnosed with MBC 12 years ago (34 years after original breast cancer surgery at age 26).
Within days of starting Gabapentin I had crippling back pain and leg cramps. (But I also started infusion and Xgeva). The cramps and back pain subsided within a few days of regular, slow, painful walking (with walking stick). Oncologist put me back on the “ramping” up of the Gabapentin. No new pains and (along with Prozac) it’s actually helping with the neuropathy.
As a side: I’ve always used medical marijuana since first diagnosed in the 1970’s (no chemo or radiation, just surgery). Except for the five years before my stage 4 MBC diagnosis (at age 60 — moved to a different state) where not readily available. CBD/THC helped with overall mood, positive attitude and other cancer pains, but not the neuropathy.
I’ll be 73 this year and am 7 months into my second recurrence in liver and bones. The two best things I’ve done for my well-being are (1) rescued a 14 year old Jack Russell Terrier, and with walking said dog, kept up my spirits lost nearly 100 lbs.
Take active part in your therapy, educate yourself as much as possible — there are so many new therapies — and be kind to yourself. 🫶🏼