Clinical Trial

[Cherbear]

I recently changed oncologists/cancer centers and was informed about a Phase II clinical trial that I might qualify for. This involves a combination therapy with Thalidomide, Arsenic Trioxide, Dexamethosone, and Ascorbic Acid (aka TADA trial). It is being done at the Cleveland Clinic on an outpatient basis.

Does anyone know anything about these medications, either taken alone or in a combination? I have some literature about this study, and am willing to get on this study, but don’t know if the side effects are worse than what’s going on with me now. I have been having biweekly infections, fevers, fatigue and my platelets are still in the 30,000 range. I know it could be so much worse, but I am trying to maintain a part-time job that I love and have had to miss work recently due to these issues. And my son is getting married in the summer and I don’t want to be wiped out.

Basically, what I’m wondering is if the side effects would be worse than how I’m feeling in general, which is at this point is lousy.

I appreciate any feedback.

Thanks,
Cheryl

[lynette]

Hi Cheryl,
My Mom is on Trisenox, ARA-C, and Ascorbic Acid as part of a clinical study at New York Presbyterian. She achieved remission after two cycles. Presently, she in on maintenance which is 7 days of ARA-C and two days of Arsenic and Vitamin C. She feel very well, and has few side effects. She does feel very fatigued during the treatments. However, on the off weeks, she feels well. She did experience numbness and tingling in her fingers and toes from the Arsenic.
Lynette

[Author]

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