The Colon Club

Are stomach cramps a normal side effect of FOLFIRI? If so is there anything that can help? I've read about the possibility of the big D. My DH had his first infusion today and is moaning and groaning with cramps, but no big D.

Any wisdom appreciated

I get a shot right before I get my ironitican, I forget what it is called, it is to prevent a major cramp while the infusion is happening. It doesn't stop the big D, that is still a possibility.

Yes, stomach and intestinal cramping are known side-effects of Irinotecan, which is part of Folfiri. Next time ask them to give your DH "atropine" during the infusion. It stops the cramps immediately and prevents them from coming back.

That's it that's what I get, thanks, juliej, it was driving me batty trying to remember.

Thanks for the quick replies! I'm fairly certain they did give him atropine... At least he is resting pretty comfortably right now. If it doesn't subside by morning I guess a call to the office will be in order.

I got horrible cramps when I first started FOLFIRI. Atrophine was also added to my chemo mix. ONC also gave me some medication for home - all I remember is they were blue capsules. Another thing that helped me was eating soft foods and eating a little something often.

I did, but not as bad as your hubby. I did have atropine but I thought that that was to "dry things up". My pain was more like indigestion type pain which radiated to my back. Diarrhea wasn't much of a problem for me, but I did get some late onset diarrhea from around my 9th treatment. All the best to your husband, make sure that he lets his onc know.