3 replies to this topic

[Paula]

I want to thank everyone who commented on my posts the past few weeks. I got so much good advice and support. I wanted to let everyone know that I am feeling so much better. As a matter of fact I didn't even realize how bad I was feeling until the past couple of days of feeling good. The problems seem to have been caused my a blood pressure medication that I have been on for over two years. So I am not sure why it suddenly started depleting my potassium and sodium. But I can tell you that after being off that medication I am doing great. I haven't felt this good in a long time. Also I am not having stomach issues and feeling nauseous  and sick all the time. It seems I have more energy as well. I find this to be amazing as all along I have been blaming everything on the Gleevec when it may not have anything to do with the problems that I have been having.

I guess only time will tell.

The other good news I want to share is my lab test results for the PCR is now at 0.007 down from 0.023 last month. I feel I am getting so close to a complete response along with feeling better I am so grateful for that. It has been 27 months since starting with the Gleevec and I take 400 and 500 mg every other day.

I just wanted to let you know the cause in case anyone was having the same difficulty and side effects as me.

I am looking forward to celebrating my birthday on Tuesday and just happy to be well.

[GerryL]

Hi Paula,

Glad you're feeling much better.

Regarding your potassium levels the TKIs can reduce them and if you're on a blood pressure/fluid tablet which is also reducing your potassium levels it may cause you some issues, which appears to be what happened with you. Also make sure they are keeping an eye on your calcium and magnesium levels as TKIs can reduce these, if this starts to happen you can take calcium magnesium supplements - just take them a few hours apart from your TKI to make sure there is no interaction.

Good news on your PCR results and all the best for your birthday on Tuesday.

Gerry

[Marnie]

Happy, happy birthday, and Happy .007 (darned close to PCRU!!)

[Susan61]

Hi Paula:  So glad your feeling better.  I am on BP medication for years, and I have gone through some bad times with them trying different kinds on me.

I have already passed out from one of them.  Now I am finally on medication that works for me.  I have said before that Gleevec has its side effects, but I tell everyone not to blame everything on the Gleevec.  So many other medications etc. can be the culprit.  May you continue to work your way to PCRU.

Keep us updated.

Susan 61