How do I manage side effects from standalone Keytruda?

Starting a new treatment can bring up many questions and concerns. Many community members find it helpful to keep track of any changes they notice and maintain open communication with their healthcare team about managing potential side effects. The medical team can provide personalized guidance on what to watch for and strategies that work best for each individual situation.

I have stage 4 stomach and liver cancer. I was put on Keytruda alone for two years. My cancer not only was halted but shrunk. There was no study’s beyond 2 years so I went off for 8 months and the last scans scans showed growth again so I had CT scans after my third Keytruda treatment and it already shows it’s stable. As for side effects I had blood clots in my lungs, red “pimples” which itch a lot, still getting those, extremely tired from 1 to 3 days after in my FIRST YEAR . Now I don’t seem to be too tired, maybe a nap here and there. It also ruined my cortisol so I’m currently on 30 mgs of hydrocortisone each day. The mg amount might change but I’ll be on it the rest of my life. Let me know if you have questions!

Thanks Rick for your reply! I have stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue & papillary thyroid. I started keytruda in Jan. It’s been working tumors are shrinking! Weird I had one pop up in my armpit while the others are actively shrinking. My symptoms are a lot like you mentioned. I’m relieved to hear the tiredness will get better! 1487- Hang in there! Be mindful and listen to your body. If you need rest take it. The days you feel great, don’t over due it. The other days you don’t want to do anything, push yourself to do 1 thing. You Got this!