[brandywine]

Velcade and diarrhea

by brandywine on Thu Jan 28, 2016 8:22 pm

I am only taking Velcade subcutaneous once every 2 weeks for maintenance after stem cell transplant. No major reactions for a year, same dosage. Last 3 treatments, I have had a full day of diarrhea.

Why the sudden change?

I told the oncology nurse at the last treatment, but that did not seem to be a concern to her.

Anyone else have a new reaction to Velcade?

[mrozdav]

Re: Velcade and diarrhea

by mrozdav on Fri Jan 29, 2016 5:31 pm

Brandywine,

I have not experienced actual diarrhea, but after several months on Velcade only, my stool suddenly became much looser for a day or two right after the Velcade injection for about two or three months. I was surprised and then concerned that I was developing a problem, but, happily, it appears not.

I make a point of drinking at least two glasses of water before the injection and two glasses right after the injection. In addition, in general, but particularly on the day of the injection and the next day, I try to eat a lot of fiber in the form of whole grains, fruits, seeds, and nuts, and avoid added sugars. This diet, I do believe, has helped me to avoid a lot of potential digestive problems associated with Revlimid, dexamethasone, and Velcade. Of course, I cannot be sure.