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Help with side effects

AliceM25
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My husband had extensive surgery in May and is now undergoing chemotherapy. So far he's has very low pottasium which needed  urgent treatment. He was due another chemo session today but had a call Wednesday to say his white blood cells were too low so it was being differed.  He has been given Filgrastim injections to administer for 5 days. Last night after the 2nd injection,  the pains in his back hips and legs were horrendous, to the point of tears. 

Is there anything other than paracetamol or cocodamol he can take. I've tried calling the unit but after 40 minutes on hold I gave up

  • Hello, and thank you for posting.

    I am sorry to hear about your husband's situation.

    This injection, also known as GCSF, is known to give bone pain as a side effect, but it is difficult for us to recommend more than over-the-counter medications, like co-co-codamol (paracetamol and codeine) every 6 hours. If your husband is taking this as prescribed and he is still suffering, I am afraid it is his own team that needs to review and make other suggestions. Some people do take anti-inflammatory medicines, like ibuprofen, on top of these painkillers, but not everyone gets on with ibuprofen, so best to check with the hospital team. If your husband has a specialist nurse at the hospital, you could also leave a message for them.

    Take care, and I hope this gets sorted for you both. If you would like to talk to the nurses on the helpline the number is 0808 800 4040. Lines are open mon-fri, 9-5.

    Sarah.

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Sarah

    Thank you for the reply. Unfortunately he cannot take anti inflammatory drugs. We'll see how tonight's dosage goes and see if we can get hold of the access team if necessary.

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