Xeloda for colon cancer - Scared about side effects and need support
Hello, I was diagnosed with stage 3A colon cancer after surgery because 1 lymph node out of 35 came back with cancer. I am supposed to start Xeloda in a couple of weeks for 6 months, and worry about how I will function working from home, taking care of my two little dogs, and living with the side effects. I am all alone and very scared, and would appreciate knowing how others dealt with taking Xeloda and how they managed through the process. Thank you.
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Hello, I was first diagnosed with colon cancer in October of 2022, and after surgery in November, 2022, I was taking Xeloda tablets for 6 months. During that time, I did not really have any side effects and was able to eat and live a normal life. I do remember my doctor mentioning that one of the side effects could be diarrhea but I did not experience that. If your father is not getting relief from Immodium he should discuss this with his oncologist and see what other medications would help, or if there is anything he can do in terms of his diet (more fiber) that would help. I'm sorry that I cannot offer any other suggestions, but it would be best to discuss with the oncologist. I will keep your dad in my prayers and I am sending lots of hugs and positive energy his way. I can tell you that Xeloda helped me tremendously with my situation as my cancer was caught early and the Xeloda was very successful in treating my cancer. I wish the same for your dad.
I was on it too same dose and diarrhea was uncontrollable for 2-3 days where I couldn't stand up without it coming out - Nurse told me I could use 8 Imodium pills a day didn't help much but plus brat diet and finally after 10 days stopped. This was my third dose of Capecitabine and now I am off of it too many side effects for me. Good luck and Keep in Touch
My Dad is taking Xeloda (3000mg per day) and have severe diaheria. Immodium and other OTC medicines doesn't help. Wondering if you can share your exwpwrience on side effects.
What is the other treatment?
Thank you for sharing. This is encouraging. I'll start Xeloda on 11/28/23 (along with other treatment).
I am in my second month of taking Xeloda. Stage3, 52 lymph nodes taken, 2 nodes indicating cancer. I am doing very well. No apparent side affects. I work out every day and stay active. I am 74 years old and grateful for the pill option. Hope this helps!
Update
My cancer is gone! On October 26th I had a colostomy.I named her Libby because she’s liberated me from the bathroom! I am learning to navigate my new normal. I think I’m doing really well. I’m looking forward to doing all the things I couldn’t do when I was dealing with the fecal incontinence. For some people a colostomy is a big deal. For me it means a better quality of life! My surgery was done at Mayo in Florida. My doctor is the best!
Hi Lisa, I think Martin's reply makes sense, and you just have to scroll back to the beginning of the thread. You can also ask the moderator for help if you get stuck or have trouble. There may also be a specific thread and posts under a heading for stage 4. What has your experience been so far? Wishing you the very best on your situation and will keep you in my prayers. The key is to follow your doctor's instructions and stay positive. We all know it's hard, but you are not alone. We are all here to help, so feel free to ask questions and share your concerns. Take care and let us know how things are going. Sending hugs your way. Lee
Hello lisaf64
If you scroll back to the beginning of this thread and click on Colorectal Cancer Support Groùp this will take you to lots of other threads, some of which may be particularly relevant to Stage 4.
In the case of leed2022 and myself we were diagnosed around the same time at stage 2/3 level and had similar treatment and so we found it good to compare experiences. My thread is entitled 'My journey with rectal cancer. What's your experience? '.
Best of luck.
Martin
How do I go back and follow from the beginning to follow your journey I can’t find from beginning. I am not good with forums to follow along. But trying to research stage 4 colon cancer.