Switching It Up

After completing 4 rounds of Empliciti/thalodimide/dexamethasone it was clear that it was not working. Free lightchain progression below:

June 21: 5.79

July 1: 45.81

July 7: 53.44

July 14: 56.03

July 21: 108.58

Dana Farber switched my treatment plan to isatuximab(Sarclisa)/pomalyst/dexamethasone. Similar to other treatments I have been on (infusion and pills). I started the new treatment on Friday at Smilow. I did have a slight reaction (which is anticipated they start the does very slowly and move up the speed over time), it happened after the first bump up of time. I simply started coughing. They gave me more Benadryl (IV) and it resolved fairly quickly. I did have the company of both the nurse and the APRN for a full hour just watching me while I worked. The rest of the treatment went off without a hitch. It was a 7+ hour day (and a $20 parking fee!).

So, fingers crossed this treatment is more successful. There are some things they would add to this regimen if needed.

My calcium is also elevated, also known as hypercalemia (which is a symptom of the myeloma being active), Dana Farber gave me a liter of fluid and an Xgeva shot (strengthens your bones). There was not any change on Friday, so I received an additional liter of fluid on Friday. The most annoying side effect of hypercalcemia is constipation – enough said.

We head out to Hampton Bays on August 7. I was able to work out my treatment dates so I can stay for the full week, just have to leave at 6 am on get-away day.