My Cancer Treatment: Mixed Results and Next Steps

Marion, I was on Kisqali 600 for over a year. We just reduced it to 400 due to side effects. I have lots in my spine, too. Only 1 is lighting up and it's increased since my last scan. My next scans won't be for 3 months. If it's increased again, I'll probably have it radiated and switch medication. I would probably try the higher dose.

Virginia M. I go to Doctor next week, maybe the 400mg is not strong enough for us. It is sad to take these meds, and they are not working. Wonder why meds help some tumors and not others. They will say different mutations. Tell you truthfully, my oncologist doesn't seem to be so knowledgeable with the Kisquali, and I called the company, and they said any questions you have to ask your doctor. Really, no support. Anyway, keep in touch.

The protocol has changed since I started my journey in Jan 2016. Kisqali is usually 1st line CDK4/6 today. I started on Ibrance (FDA approved in Feb 2016) in Mar 2016, first with letrozole, then with fluvestrant. I have been on Kisqali with exemestane since July 2023. Our cancers figure out we're trying to kill them and work around our meds. Scientists are trying to figure out how. I think they will do it in my lifetime.

Not going to take Kisqali sounds futile. I’m stage 1 and no distal metastasis. Can I ask if you started Kisqali after bone Mets or before?

Jeanne H. Usually they give for metastasis. I never heard of giving it for localized cancer. I am taking 400mg and I have no problem with it.

Virginia..question..once you have radiation in that area, you can't have it again rigjt?

Mixed results on scans can feel uncertain and overwhelming, especially when some areas show stability while others have progressed. Many community members have shared similar experiences with treatment responses that aren't straightforward, and it's completely understandable to have questions about next steps. Your oncologist will be able to review your complete medical picture and discuss whether adjustments to your current treatment plan might be beneficial - they'll consider factors like how long you've been on the medications, your overall response, and what options might work best for your specific situation.