Lonsurf

I have been on Lonsurf for fifteen months; initially on 55 mgs twice daily - it was then reduced earlier this year to 40 mgs twice daily as I was having to go the extra week because of low neutrophil count.  This had also been the case when I was on 55 mgs twice daily.    The Consultant last month reduced the dosage again to 30 mgs twice daily so that there would hopefully bo no gap in the cycles - this has not proved to be the case.

My CEA marker done on 8/8/23 came back on 5/9/23 as 5 which is the best it has been since January 2023.  My last two CT scans have remained static.  He will not re-instate the 40 mg twice daily cycle.   I am gardening, doing all the housework. supermarket shopping and looking after my disabled husband.   We have no family.

I have no side effects at all - what can I do next ?   I am not expecting miracles with Stage 4 Colon Cancer but feel too well to throw in the towel.

Many thanks,

Gill

Parents
  • Hello Gill, and thanks for your post,

    It is good to hear that your Lonsurf treatment has not had too much of an impact on your busy life with any unpleasant side effects. We have an information sheet on this drug which you may find helpful to read here

    Whilst your scans remain static and your CEA is at a good level the doctors may want you to carry on with the Lonsurf once your neutrophils have recovered particularly as you have had such a good response.

    Because you have been on treatment for such a long time it is not surprising that your neutrophils need time to recover.

    I would talk through any concerns with your oncologist. The only other thing you could do is to try and get a second opinion from another oncologist though they may have the same opinion.

    You are welcome to ring the helpline nurses if you want to talk any of this through with us. Our helpline number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine

  • Thank you for your reply Catherine.   I have talked through with Oncologist, he won't change his mind.  He is the only Oncologist locally and because I am looking after my husband, unfortunately cannot travel to London for a second opinion.   I saw a doctor at a London hospital several years ago and he agreed I should have treatment as I felt so well.   

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  • Thank you for your reply Catherine.   I have talked through with Oncologist, he won't change his mind.  He is the only Oncologist locally and because I am looking after my husband, unfortunately cannot travel to London for a second opinion.   I saw a doctor at a London hospital several years ago and he agreed I should have treatment as I felt so well.   

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