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Loss of appetite and fatigue after 10 weeks on Keytruda

Posted by lizfuller @lizfuller, Sep 21, 2024

Hi, I have been participating in a clinical trial for the last 11 weeks with a STK11 inhibitor paired with Keytruda for treatment of metastatic lung adenocarcinoma. During the last 2 cycles I noticed more fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, diarrhea/ looser thinner stools, and constipation. Plus some coughing, phlegm and breathing difficulties I've been experiencing, likely related to my vocal cord paralysis. I consider this maybe a 2 out of 10 on the possible discomfort scale but it has impacted my motivation to do things. I exercise regularly with pilates class 3-5 days a week and try to walk my dog daily. but that's about all I can do, I hit the couch by the afternoon and don't get up. I'm having trouble motivating to make meals. I was doing great at eating healthy but will now get taco bell (chicken not beef) if I'm not feeling like eating much but want some protein, or pots tickets if I can't think of anything else.

my question i guess is, what can I do to improve motivation, reduce fatigue and improve my appetite?

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westonan | @westonan | Jul 22 9:11pm
In reply to @fighter2025 "Hello Everyone, came to this thread as I desperately search for some help regarding Keytuda induced..." + (show)
Profile picture for fighter2025 @fighter2025

Hello Everyone, came to this thread as I desperately search for some help regarding Keytuda induced stomach / GI issues.

So far, I had 6 Keytruda infusion (200ml) + chemo.
Post chemo, Keytruda alone about 5 infusions (full dose of 400ml).

This very last one about 3 weeks ago created a havoc on my stomach. A day after, started to experience stomach pain post meal. Managed it with home remedies like mint, carom seeds with little salt for enhanced digestion. About a week later reported to Dr. as no relief was on sight. An Rx of Prilosec (20mg for 15 days was advised stating it seems like a gastritis issue.
Took this Rx for about 13 days & 2 to go yet no relief. Matter fact, discomfort is bit more.
There is a loss of appetite, no desire to eat food. Many times just forcing (pushing food in my mouth) myself to eat a bite.
Reported my issue with update again. This time being advised on trying Reglan, an anti-nausea med that was given for 3-4 days post chemo … justification, looks like my stomach is not getting emptied quick. BTW, never had any issues eating food in large qty before.

My question, has anyone else similar issue? If yes, how did you resolve it?
Any help will greatly appreciated.

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I have not started Ketruda yet but when I was on Doxil and Carbo I had terrible stomachaches. My nurse coach recommended Enterade found on Amazon it. Is expensive but it was a life saver for me. Follow the directions.

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abob | @abob | Jul 23 8:28pm

My husband is on Keytruda #14.
GI issues somewhat helped by probiotic, Benefiber, stool softener as nec.
He had also suffered great fatigue and zero appetite a couple of months ago. Turns out Keytruda caused him Afibs, discovered by his Apple Watch, he felt no chest symptoms. He has had an ablation and woke up peppy and hungry. His new blood pressure / heart rate med is working well.

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denzie | @denzie | Jul 24 9:17pm

Glad to read he has been able to manage the AFIB. There is not enough education or emphasis on following chemo, immunotherapy, and radiation treatments and their effect on the heart.

Personally I developed heart failure. A friend had a heart attack. We were told that left side radiation to breast cancer patients always means follow up with cardiology. Nothing is ever said to lung cancer patients.

I would still have had my treatment knowing the possibility.

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