Immunotherapy Side Effects

Keytruda Side Effects:

• Chills & Fatigue: Users experienced intense chills, fatigue, and weakness soon after the infusion. One user's father had to be admitted to the hospital and put on high flow oxygen due to low blood oxygen levels.
  • Doctors weren't sure what was going wrong, but the symptoms were possibly related to lung inflammation and were treated with antibiotics and steroids.
  • Pneumonitis has been noted as a potential side effect even with a rapid onset.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Some users reported diarrhea, with suggestions to stay hydrated and consider medications like Imodium or Colace if needed.
• Joint Pain: Joint aches, especially in feet, were a common side effect after treatment.
• Mouth Sores & Mucositis: Users experienced mouth sores, ulcers, and sensitive areas in the mouth, requiring various treatments such as mouthwashes, mouth moisturizers, and pain relief medications.

Other Immunotherapy Side Effects:

• General Side Effects: Users reported fatigue, rashes, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea as common side effects of immunotherapy.
• Thyroid & Joint Complications: Other users mentioned immune system attacking joints and thyroid while on treatment, leading to additional medication requirements.
• Dry Mouth & Loss of Taste: Dry mouth and changes in taste were noted by some, impacting daily life and work routines.
• Mouth Ulcers: Mouth ulcers were a common issue, with severe cases requiring a range of medications from mouthwashes to pain relief solutions.

Management Tips & Considerations:

• Users shared tips like using Biotene mouth products, avoiding acidic or spicy foods, and seeking medical advice for mouth ulcers and joint pains.
• Collaboration with healthcare providers to adjust treatment dosages, manage symptoms like mouth sores, and explore alternative or complementary medication options was recommended.

By sharing experiences and seeking support, individuals undergoing immunotherapy can better manage and navigate the side effects associated with these treatments.