Communities›Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer›"What are others' experiences with Lapatinib for HER2+ breast cancer?"

"What are others' experiences with Lapatinib for HER2+ breast cancer?"

AK

Community Member

4 months ago

Hello all, I am new here and my diagnosis is Her2 triple positive stage 4 that metastasized to spine. Multiple lesions and compression fractures. I am bedridden because of the pain. I am currently on Anastrozole and was just prescribed Lapatinib. Has anyone taken this? I just got the pills and was told I need 6 a day (all in one shot). I thought the pill ls would be itty bitty and I am completely wrong! They are horse pills that would require me to cut them 3 times to take one pill. Any advice or stories with this pill? I am also very afraid of the side effects 🥲

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Many community members have shared experiences with Lapatinib, and concerns about pill size and side effects are very common topics here. Consider asking your care team about pill-splitting tools or liquid alternatives if swallowing is challenging, and remember that side effects vary greatly from person to person - connecting with others who've been on similar treatments in this community can provide valuable insights and support during this time.

3+ patients found this helpful

VM

Community Member

4 months ago

I hope you asked your oncologist and/or pharmacist if you can cut the pills. You may need to keep them whole and take with applesauce.

1
VM

Community Member

4 months ago

Also, Cymbalta 90 mg can mask bone pain.

PP

Community Member

3 months ago

Eight months ago I was newly diagnosed with stage 4 MBC. I was given Kisqali. At first I was afraid of it and didn’t want to take a poison pill. Now no one can take it away from me. I’m walking 7,000 steps daily, grocery shopping, driving locally and look totally normal. I’ve had some rash and hair thinning, but I never dreamed I would live this long and feel this well. Give the meds a chance. (Also check, many of these pills should not be cut.)

3
SK

Community Member

2 months ago

I took anastrazole for a short time but I hated the side effects. They were very small pills. I have stage 4 triple positive too. Mets to my brain. Cancer free after chemo every 3 weeks X 6 and now immunotherapy every three weeks forever. My hair and weight is back. Remission is possible!

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Many community members have shared experiences with Lapatinib, and concerns about pill size and side effects are very common topics here. Consider asking your care team about pill-splitting tools or liquid alternatives if swallowing is challenging, and remember that side effects vary greatly from person to person - connecting with others who've been on similar treatments in this community can provide valuable insights and support during this time.

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