LMP, I've lost ten pounds since starting Keytruda infusions. I've had two. My appetite is just gone. I can only eat small portions and beef is off the menu completely! Now, I can definitely afford to lose the weight, but it is difficult trying to find something that I actually want to eat.
I have had a few new pains, but my oncologist seems to think they are to be expected. Keytruda causes inflammation of the back and joints. She just tells me to take the pain meds and that we will do another PET following the next infusion at the end of July. Keytruda also causes low grade fevers. More of an irritation than anything else.
Unfortunately, this treatment is also hitting me hard in the pocketbook. When I was taking the Ibrance, the specialty pharmacy hooked me up with grants that covered part of the cost of the medication. The pharmacy where I have to get the Keytruda will not do this, so it's costing me almost $600 every three weeks. It could be worse. Thank goodness I have insurance to cover the rest! I get a laugh each time I see one of the drug commercials stating that they may be able to help with the cost. Not if you have Medicare. That immediately disqualifies a person. They aren't stupid since the majority of the people needing these drugs are older and on Medicare. Oh, well. You can't take it with you!
LMP, always thinking of you!
Anyway, so far I've avoided it to a large degree but do get a small amount of it near the tips of my fingers. I was also told to moisturize and stay away from things like hot tubs or too much walking etc. Hope it improves for you. I've also heard Keytruda can have a lot of side effects, but I have also heard good things about its effectiveness. I hope that you are getting those good benefits!
It is scary at the outset. Mine wasn’t too, too bad.
