Dosage reduction

My father’s abdominal, pelvis and chest scans have remained stable, including the most recent one last week. It’s not something I ever expected, but I’m incredibly grateful he has maintained stability.

However, as you know, the combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy can have significant side effects.

Recently, he has been hit with two infections, both requiring nearly a month for recovery.

An option being considered is to reduce his chemotherapy dosage to 20%. While this seems like a sensible approach—especially when balancing quality of life with treatment—it raises a difficult question: Would such a reduction significantly improve his quality of life while also increasing the risk of the disease becoming less stable compared to continuing with the full dosage?

I would greatly appreciate any thoughts or insights anyone has on this matter.

Thank you so much for your time and support.

  • Hello T4TAFA

    It's great to hear that your Dad has had a good response to treatment and that his scans have all shown the cancer to remain stable. It's understandable given that he's been unwell with infections that the specialists have suggested a reduction in the dose of the treatment to see if they can achieve a better balance of things for him. 

    His treatment team will be best placed to talk with you about the risks versus benefits of trialling this dose reduction as they have an overall view of your Dad's health. However if you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses for some advice and support you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    Whatever decision your Dad and the specialists make about his treatment, I hope that he's able to achieve a good balance of reduced side effects and continued stability. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator