My mother is about to start myeloma treatment using Lenalidomide. If she gets side effects when are they likely to start? She lives alone. I live 10 hours away, but I could take time off work to support her if needed.
I am sorry to hear about your mother's situation and I can appreciate you have some concerns about her starting treatment for myeloma.
lenalidomide is a treatment taken at home, it is given every day for 3 weeks with a week off. Your mum will need to have a blood test every time she starts a new cycle of treatment.
As with all medication, there will be side effects, however, what side effects there will be and when they will happen varies from person to person. For example, it could take a few days into her first cycle of treatment or a couple of cycles of treatment before you can fully appreciate how it will affect her.
Please remember that your mother will be given a card with telephone numbers of the chemotherapy and hospital teams on it. This will be who you or your mother could contact if there is a worry about her.
It might be helpful to look at our information about living with myeloma. Within it we have further information about the support your mum could have if it is needed, this might be helpful to see.
You may also find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
