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Immunotherapy side effects - what have your experiences been like?

robbiss
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I recently had a tumour successfully removed from my left kidney. It was diagnosed as stage 2 renal cancer which meant I qualified for immunotherapy. I have an appointment with oncology in May to discuss this treatment for a year, every 6 weeks.

I've read a lot of negatively about possible side effects and illness caused by this.

Wondered if anyone had something similar and what their experience of immunotherapy was

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    There are several immunotherapy treatments for kidney cancer but Pembrolizumab seems to be one discussed a lot here. If you search the forum you will find lots of posts.

    Some people tolerate it well and others don't.

    There is nothing to be lost in starting the treatment and benefiting from it, if you do not tolerate it well you can discontinue it. Give it a go.

    Ed

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    Hi I am  a 79 year old male on immunotherapy for advanced melanoma in the brain. Side effects for this are numerous - usually tiredness coming on suddenly, emotional stuff comes up from nowhere especially when I hear mood music.  Mentally I get great clarity sometimes and start laughing. On the whole it’s early days ( 4 months so far) and feel fairly comfortable in myself. But really have to stay positive and see the bright side of life. Day times are better for me I usually get cheerful but not so much during the night. 
    A

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    I have kidney cancer and have been receiving Prembolizumab every six weeks for the last 9 months. I have been experiencing some side effects but they are manageable. Because it is using your own immune system to fight the cancer everyone’s experience of immunotherapy is different. You will be given a lot of support.

    Once you start the treatment you will be given a number to call 24x7 if you are feeling unwell or worried about side effects. It is staffed by a team of cancer nurses, based at your local hospital. You will also be allocated a specialist cancer nurse, who works closely with your oncologist. You can call them with any non-urgent questions and concerns.

    Deciding to go ahead with treatment is a very personal decision. I was worried and anxious at the start but I have had a positive experience. As farmer_ed says you could always try the treatment. You can ask to pause it at any time, or stop it completely, if you feel it is too much to cope with.

    Good luck with your oncology appointment.

    Fan

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