Elderly mom – what happens if she stops Procrit?

[Fran Basche]

Hi all, my mom is 90 and has MDS. She has been getting Procrit shots for years, but lately as her health has deteriorated it’s not working quite as well, she is often at a 9 for hemoglobin. She also has COPD, heart disease and a variety of other health concerns. She is in a nursing home and is rapidly running out of steam.

As she nears the end of her time she is considering stopping the routine of weekly blood tests and Procrit shots.

I’m wondering what will happen? How long after stopping Procrit would it have an impact on her overall health? Will it hasten her death? Thanks for your help in thinking about this difficult decision.

[Janet]

The drugs they give us eventually stop working or are less effective. When Mom’s hemoglobin drops to 7, she will need transfusions. A Dr might know how quickly that will happen. I become much more fatigued and short of breath when hemoglobin drops. Ultimately, it is up to your mom to make the decisions. Have you talked to Hospice?

[Author]

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