5 replies to this topic

[cmljax]

I had my annual ophthalmology exam about a month ago and in addition to needing cataract surgery, I was told that I have dry eye.  I already have dry mouth from Tasigna (much improved on lower dose), so this was not a news flash.  My eyes really don't bother me, certainly not like my mouth has.  Anyway, the Dr recommended that I take an Omega 3 supplement called theratears.  Here are the ingredients:

 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids from Fish Oil and Flaxseed Oil: EPA (450 mg), DHA (300 mg), ALA (450 mg), Total Omega-3 Content (1200 mg). Other Ingredients:Gelatin, Glycerin USP, Soybean Oil (as a Carrier for Vitamin E), and Purified Water USP.

 

My oncologist ok'd this yesterday, but before I start it, I though I would get some feedback on this site.  I would appreciate anyone sharing their experience with Omega 3 supplements and whether or not it would in any way potentially interfere with or reduce the effectiveness of the low dose of Tasigna (150 mg per day) that I currently take. If I remain at MR 4.5 or better for another 9 months, my oncologist has agreed to supervise a cessation trial for me.  Needless to say, I want to do everything I can increase the odds that I can attempt cessation and nothing to mess it up.

 

Thanks in advance for any input

[tiredblood]

I think it would not interfere and may try it myself. Full dose Tasigna dried out my hair, eyes, and mouth too. FWIW, I found Xiidra eye drops to work better than Restasis for dry eyes should you ever need an opinion on that... not that  you asked, however.

I hope you get good results. Mine got so dry for a while that my eyelids actually stuck to my eye. one evening after work it was so bad, I stopped at Wal-Mart and got the greasy eye ointment and put it in in the parking lot and just sat there until the greasy blur went away, then drove home.

[kat73]

I've joined the cataract club.  Doesn't seem fair at 66.  I'll bet it has to do with the collagen being messed with by the TKI's.  Sigh.  Yet another thing.

[cmljax]

I am 64 and have had these cataracts for 5 years or so, but they were stable and not interfering with my eyesight until the last year or so, just about coincident with my CML Dx. Never thought that Tasigna could have contributed to this acceleration, but it has messed with everything else, so why not my eyesight. I am actually looking forward to being able to see without contacts or glasses. SIlver linings are everywhere   

[cmljax]

Now I am reading that Omega 3 and other types of fish oil supplements can actually make benign premature heart contractions (which I have from Tasigna) worse. And some articles say it makes them better - LOL. What to do??? For now, I am thinking I should not take the fish oil.  Any advice or experience?

[beno]

I have taken fish oil for years, even before my diagnosis.  My onc approved it and it hasn't stopped my progress on controlling CML.