Palbociclib Side effects & covid

Can someone be brutually honest and offer advice about the side effects of  this drug - my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in January after hiding a lump for 18months. After scans, it's spread to bones and lung & diagnosis is stage 4. She has been offered this drug along with Denosumab (which is the injection into her belly), however the side effects in the fact sheets are pretty scary. She refused it last visit to the cancer hospital about 6weeks ago as would mean she would have to shield & I vowed to investigate on these forums how it would effect her. My primary concern is that her immune system will weaken and the side effects sound similar to some of covid - temperature, chest infections etc and id be scared that we will be constantly thinking she has that. 
 

Can someone please let me know how they get on with it and we can make a proper decision based on actual people rather than a fact sheet.

  • Hello SianT
    I'm sorry to hear about your Mum's diagnosis. It's understandable that you're feeling concerned about the treatment options that have been offered and what this may mean for Mum. 

    If you read the fact sheet that comes with any medication it can make for scary reading. There is a legal duty for this information to be shared but it's important to also remember that every person is different and will not necessarily experience the same side effects. If you wanted to use the forum search function to look for the term Palbociclib you'll be able to read through quite a few posts there it has been mentioned. 

    If you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses then please do give them a call. They're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator