Decision time: should I take both Cabozantinib and Nivolumab together?

I have to decide if I should take cabozantinib at 60% or take both Cabozantinib and Nivolumab together 

I have had kidney removed and have now have a 60 x 90cm tumour 

it is about the side effects

it would seem the Cabozantinib is the main drug I must have but there are greater risks with the Nivolumab 

I am 82 should I take that greater risk or should I start with the high dose of Cabozantinib and see what happens

what is down side of not taking both

  • Hi gscalemike, 

    This sounds like a very difficult decision you are having to make and I can imagine there are a lot of factors to be taken in consideration such as your age, possible effects you might encounter if you take both drugs. Our website has information on Cabozantinib and you can also find out more about nivolumab including on the side effects you may encounter. I think it would be a good idea to discuss your options thoroughly with your medical team, weighing all the pros and cons of taking either just the Cabozantinib or taking both the Cabozantinib and Nivolumab together. I am sure they will be happy to give you the most appropriate advice taking into account things like your medical history, age and several other factors. 

    Feel free also to give our cancer nurses a call on this free number 0808 800 4040 to discuss your options through with them - you can ring them on this free number 0808 800 4040 - the helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

    I hope that you will hear from other members of our community who have taken these drugs and that they will be along shortly to share their experience with you. Even if it is important to bear in mind that the same drug will affect two people very differently (so if someone has a side effect you may not experience the same), it is always interesting to hear from others who have been on the same treatment. I have found another thread on the forum which might be of interest to you - have a look at  's post on side effects from nivolumab and cabozantinib posted this cabozantinib thread and  posted about their experience with stage 4 kidney cancer taking a combination of Nivolumab and Cabozantinib. These are just a few examples but don't hesitate to respond to any thread you feel would be relevant to your situation. 

    I hope that you get to talk to someone about this difficult decision so that you get all the facts and information and find the best treatment solution for you. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator