What are the real side effects of Taxol and Kadcyla chemotherapy?

I’ve done Taxol for 12 weeks. Hair loss, fatigue, nail changes and nausea were most of my side effects. The dosage of chemo is based on your weight and the world of oncology has become much better at providing relief of side effects. I get several drugs to relieve side effects both during the infusion and the days after. Honestly, chemo was much easier than I thought it would be.

That’s very encouraging, thank you so much! Did you get a break in side effects between doses? I was told I’d be tired the next day and then everything back to normal, but fatigue would be cumulative over the 12 weeks. What kind of nail changes? Did they fall off (raw nail beds)? Mine are pretty soft and thin.

I usually felt the worst the next day after Taxol. Some decrease in appetite and some nausea and fatigue. Within a day or 2 I was back to normal. Each infusion got easier. The effects were not really cumulative for me. My nails never fell off. They did turn dark but they are already half grown out. The line of demarcation from the taxol nails to my new nail growth is quite startling. One thing that is a must during Taxol is to ice your hands and feet to prevent neuropathy. I was blessed to not have that happen to me. As always with chemo, hydrate well and then drink more fluids.

I have finished 12 rounds of taxol, keytruda and carboplatin with hardly no side effects at all. Fatigue yes, hair thinning but no neuropathy or nail damage. I too iced my hands and feet during the taxol. I started the second round of my chemo AC with keytruda , no mouth sores, Ate popsicles during the 15 minute infusion. Then I used a mouthwash given by my dentist. Hydration is the key. My oncology RN told me at least 2 liters of water every day for at least 3 days! So far so good. On a great note…my tumor has shrunk by half already! Thank you Jesus

Congrats on the shrinking tumor!!!! And Thank you for those reassurances! I’ve not heard about icing hands and feet and will be sure to hydrate as you both recommend. Thanks again and my very best wishes to you both.

Both Taxol and Kadcyla can have significant side effects that vary greatly from person to person, so reaching out to others with firsthand experience is really valuable for getting a realistic picture. While some patients do experience milder symptoms than what's often portrayed, others find the effects more challenging than initially expected, especially when treatments accumulate over time. The community members here who have been through these specific regimens will likely share honest perspectives about what to realistically prepare for, helping you make the most informed decision possible with your medical team.