Hello People,

Has anyone tried this old chemo theraphy drug named Methotrexate known as MTX commonly? I dont know why, but our doctor has tried this for my father after giving 5 doses of Biomab (Erbitux equivalent in India). He says that this old styled chemo might help shrinking the tumor.

He says that according to the books, there is nothing that he can try but he wants to experiment with this drug?

The present trouble my father is having is swelling on his face ( uptil eyes) that is not going away inspite of antibiotics ( Decdan - has anyone tried this antibiotic)? I researched the forum and people suggested physical theraphy. But doctor says that doing that wud aggravate t he pain...

Please let me know if you had swelling or puffiness on face and what antibiotics/medicines helped you...Someone in group was talking about olive oil and Vitamin E. Brian, Any comments?

I will take print out and show my doctor and let him decide then...

Your replies are desperately awaited...

Thanks a bunch..

Krishna

Krishna, first let me say how sorry I am about your Dad. Also please forgive me for trying to play Doctor here but I just wanted to awnser you to maybe give you some info and I hope it is not incorrect.
You mention swelling and the (anti-biotic Decdan)
----could this possibly be a steroid called I believe Decadron.
As for the chemo Methotrexate I believe I had that for my Leukemia treatment. It is used in the "Maintenance" phase of treatment and if memory serves me correctly it is in pill form. I handled it very well and did not get sick from it.
I hope I have been some help to you and keep in touch and let us know how you are doing.
Always,
Mark

Hi, Krishna, it's Amy. Just wanted to share that John's face has been swollen since 2005. For him it is the result combination of neck dissections, radiation and Erbitux. It's something we live with day to day. How's yoru Dad doing with caloric intake? I've been thinking about you.

THanks for your email Amy. Sorry for replying late as I do not come online too often these days being in India.

As far as nutrition and caloric intake is concerned, I think we are managing it well as suggested by a dietician...

Presently, there is no treatment given to my father other than some Antibiotics for reducing swelling. Second dose of MTX (chemo) was recommended by doctor but we refused to take it. First time when my father was given this, his condition worsened...

Dont know what treatment to give now... Biomab (Erbitux equivalent) also did not help much so that is on hold presently..

Homeopathic medicine is the only one which we are giving right now... Any suggestions for reducing swelling or any new immunotheraphy drug, please let me know..

Thanks,

Krishna

Krishna, I'm so glad you are in India! Being together is the best medicine of all. I know this is very hard for you, wish there was more I could do. Amy