What to expect during treatment
You’ve decided to move forward and are ready to start treatment. Let’s do this.
Treatment will be given by an intravenous (IV) infusion, in either the doctor's office, a hospital, or an infusion center.
First, you'll be given CYRAMZA (60- minute infusion), followed by docetaxel (60 minute infusion). If you handle the first infusion of CYRAMZA well, then your next CYRAMZA infusions may only take 30 minutes.
Before you receive CYRAMZA, your doctor will give you different medicines to help prevent an allergic reaction that may occur during the infusion.
CYRAMZA will be given in combination with docetaxel (a type of chemotherapy).
Understanding your dosing schedule with CYRAMZA
CYRAMZA + DOCETAXEL (A TYPE OF CHEMOTHERAPY)
CYRAMZA + docetaxel will be given to you once every 3 weeks, or as recommended by your doctor.
Your doctor will determine the number of treatments you receive.
SELECT SAFETY INFORMATION
CYRAMZA may cause serious side effects, including:
Reactions related to infusing CYRAMZA have happened. These can be severe and life threatening. Most of these reactions happened during or after the first or second CYRAMZA infusion. Symptoms of infusion reactions include shaking or stiffness of the body, back pain or spasms, chest pain or tightness, chills, flushing (sudden warmth and/or reddened skin on the face, neck, or upper chest), difficulty breathing, wheezing (a whistling sound in the breath caused by narrowed breathing tubes), becoming blue due to lack of oxygen, and tingling or numbness of the skin. In severe reactions, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and severe trouble breathing may happen. Your health care team will give you medicine before each CYRAMZA infusion and will watch you for these side effects. If a reaction happens, CYRAMZA treatment may be infused at a slower rate or may be permanently stopped, depending on how severe the reaction is.
Tips for day of treatment and beyond
You may be nervous about your first treatment. Or maybe you're an old pro at this. But no matter where you're coming from, here are some important tips to help get you through each infusion with CYRAMZA:
Get prepared: Get a good night’s sleep, hydrate, and eat a healthy, light meal before treatment. Make sure to ask your healthcare provider for their advice.
Dress down: Everyone has their go-to outfit that makes them feel snug and safe. Whether it’s a sweater and leggings or an old hoodie, designate your comfy outfit ahead of time so you can just grab and go.
Buddy up: Ask a friend or loved one to accompany you to your appointment for support. You’ll need a ride home from treatment, so they can also serve as your driver—and entertainment, too.
Pack a toolkit: Speaking of entertainment, pack a bag with plenty of distractions: books, magazines, music, games, entertainment on your laptop, tablet, or phone. While you’re distracted, it’s also important to keep comfy—a travel-size pillow and extra sweater or blanket can help you stay both cozy and warm. Don’t forget to also bring beverages, light snacks, and candy or mints. This can help you stay hydrated, keep your energy up, and combat any dry mouth or nausea that treatment might cause. Make sure to ask your doctor if it's okay to bring these items with you. Treatment may also cause cracked lips, so consider packing lip balm in your bag as well.
Take a minute: First things first, take a deep breath and congratulate yourself for another round down.
Take ten: How are you feeling? What went well? What would you change for next time? Consider keeping a journal with your notes, and if you’re experiencing any side effects, make sure to mention these to your doctor.
Take a load off: If you’re up for it, make time to see your family and friends. Loved ones are a great way to restore strength.