Posted by Diane C.-TX (post) on 7/1/2008, 3:28 pm
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Both of those drugs can cause severe diarrhea. The herceptin, being a monoclonal antibody, has the greater risk of causing hypersensitivity reactions as you are describing. This usually occurs during the first infusion and occasionally during later infusions. Premeds could include tylenol, benadryl, prednisone and demerol and the infusion can be given at a slower rate. A medicated skin barrior should be applied around the rectal region to decrease skin breakdown and risk of developing an infection. My niece had the same reaction as you. Her oncologist played with premed drugs and their dosages so she could continue her weekly chemo sessions. By the time she had her fourth infusion, this no longer was a major issue to deal with. Be well. Love, Lady Di
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