Postby weisssoccermom » Mon May 18, 2009 8:45 pm
I was on Xeloda both during my radiation and afterwards and never had a problem with my WBC. I never missed a cycle due to any of my blood results. That being said, either protocol is acceptable (ie XELOX or FOLFOX). FOLFOX is only 'standard' with some oncs. Many routinely prescribe the Xeloda instead of the 5FU specifically because it is easier to handle than the infused 5FU. You will, unfortunately, always find oncs who refuse to allow their patients to have the choice and this is done for a few reasons. One would be patient compliance. If an onc feels that a patient would not take the pills, then that onc is not going to prescribe them. Another reason is that the Xeloda is quite expensive and may not be covered under a patient's insurance. Finally, there is a financial reason for the onc clinic. They can control the amount billed for the 5FU/leucovorin but not for the Xeloda pills. I personally find the latter reason deplorable, but there are others on this board who have heard the same story from their oncs.
Although most people tolerate the Xeloda better than the 5FU/leucovorin, there will be some that don't. In addition, although the studies generally show that most side effects are diminished on the Xeloda, one, hand/foot syndrome is quite a bit more prevalent on the Xeloda. You also have to understand that when you do the XELOX protocol, generally, the timing is stretched out. You would start the pills on day one and have the oxi infusion that same day. Then you would keep taking the pills through day 14, rest for 7 days and start the whole process over. Generally though, patients on Xeloda tend to not have to postpone a cycle for blood count issues.
Either way you will be fine. If your onc is giving you the option and you would rather have the pills, by all means take him up on the offer!
Jaynee
Dx 6/22/2006 IIA rectal cancer
6 wks rad/Xeloda -finished 9/06
1st attempt transanal excision 11/06
11/17/06 XELOX 1 cycle
5 months Xeloda only Dec '06 - April '07
10+ blood clots, 1 DVT 1/07
transanal excision 4/20/07 path-NO CANCER CELLS!
NED now and forever!
Perform random acts of kindness