I'm about to begin treatments with Vidaza, what should I know?

Now the numbers are back down, just completed my 1st round and still hopeful. What's next?

Fantastic news, Jeffrey.

While it's only been a few days since I started treatment, my numbers seem to be improving. The Dr. and I are both optimistic that it will continue. So far, no adverse effects. Happy!

@jeffreykassover1, you might also be interested in these related discussions about azacitidine (Vidaza):
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/blood-cancers-disorders/?search=Vidaza&index=discussions
How are you doing on treatment with azacitidine (Vidaza)?

They gave me nausea medication that I took initially.
Obviously did not help.
Diagnosis is myelodysplasia and Myelofibrosis
Dr. has recommended prenausea treatment prior to another attempt.
Is it possible to get an overdose of Vidaza ?

Thanks for your response..it good information

My wbc count was in the normal range after the third round however in the first two rounds they were between 0.8 and 1.5. Now in my forth round they are down again to 1.3. So my treatment is on hold until they return to normal which my doctor assured me they will. In the meantime I use caution, for example avoid people with colds take antibiotic (LEVOFLOXACIN). In addition during first 3 rounds I took antiviral (ACYCLOVIR) and anti fugal (POSACONAZOLE).

Welcome to Connect @shot. You sure got off to a rocky start with your chemo. I’m sorry to hear you had such a miserable time and ended up in the ER.
Nausea and vomiting are actually a pretty common side effects with chemo. Fortunately, there some good meds on the market to help offset the worst of it.

I realize this experience isn’t something you’d like to repeat. Were you given any anti-nausea medications to take with your injections?

Since Vidaza is used to treat various blood cancers and conditions would you mind sharing your diagnosis?
Will you consider trying an alternative?

Hi @bettersleep68 I just wrote a reply to your other comment regarding low WBC here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/1273884/

Here’s the cut/paste version:
It’s not unusual mid cycle for blood numbers to drop. Basically, chemo targets quickly dividing cells, such as cancer cells. But it’s not discriminatory so it can impact all of the rapidly dividing cells such as red/white/platelets, mucosal lining of stomach, intestines, mouth, hair follicles and nails. During mid month the drop reaches a low point called neutropenia or nadir. At least for me, that was several days of low mental and physical energy. Then the numbers start to climb again, just in time again for the next round of chemo.

It’s not uncommon for a drug such as Neupogen or Neulasta to be administered the day following the last day of a chemo round. These meds can promote faster neutrophil production. These WBC’s are important for fighting infection.
During this time of neutropenia, be vigilant for any sign of infection such as a fever. If you develop a fever of 101.3 let your cancer team know right away.

Has your doctor mentioned an injection of Neulasta?

What did they do for your low wbc..mine are 2.6...I am worried