My dad and Abraxane/Gemcitabine side effects

[KILLAN]

Hi All,

This is my first post on here since my father (64) was diagnosed with APC, and is now on the second treatment of the first cycle of Abraxane/Gem.

Prior to treatment he had worsening back pain, but a good appetite and energy.

We are now two weeks into the chemotherapy, and he has barely eaten. His weight, energy and general state have declined significantly.

He has issues with chronic wind/bloating which are preventing him from eating, due to the pain and discomfort that ensues after eating.

He is on Lansoprazole (1 a day), domperidone (3 a day with food), Creon (before food) and ramipril, as well as Cocodamol 30/500 (8 a day).

Does anyone here have any experience with wind/bloating/lack of appetite and how to successfully manage it, to maintain weight/energy levels.

Thanks for taking the time to read this, and good luck to everyone on this journey.

[sandraW]

Hi Killan,

Welcome to the forum, the place no one really wants to be but where hopefully you will get lots of help and support.

There are different high calorie drinks available, could you ask when your Dad goes to treatment or ring/visit the GP so they can prescribe some, my husband used the Fortisip compact but there are others such as Ensure. I don't really have much experience of wind or bloating, but Trevor did find when he first started taking the Creon that it did give him wind, but that settled as his body got more used to them.

Our wonderful nurses are available on 0808 801 0707 they have lots of help and advise, and are really easy to talk to, perhaps you could give them a ring I am sure they can help, take care and keep posting sandrax xx

[Didge]

Or could he need more croon? Rob never took it but others cab advise on dosage x

[PCUK Nurse Jeni]

Hi Killian,

Welcome to the forums, and sorry that you are posting on here in such circumstances.

I am really sorry to hear about your dad's diagnosis, and subsequent issues around chemo.

However, the issues around eating with wind and bloating sound like a pancreatic enzyme issue - ie: not enough.

I know that my colleague Chris is replying directly to your email, so hopefully, there will be more information contained in this.

In the meantime, you know where we are should you need to contact us at any stage, and I hope things begin to improve for your dad.

Kind regards,

Jeni, Support Team.