Worried about dad (immunotherapy and chemo tablets)

Hi everyone I am new to this..

I just wanted some advice and it's nice to talk to people who understand. 

My dad was diagnosed with kidney cancer back in 2021 and had his kidney removed, we never really got the all clear as he was always back and forth for scans etc and there was some lung nodules that they were always keeping a eye on.

Anyways we recently found out he has cancer in his remaining kindey, adrenal gland and lung. He had no symptoms what so ever and was only found due to the follow up scans.

He started treatment around 3 weeks ago and has immunotherapy in a drip every fortnight and takes 2 tablets a day called Axitnib. He is really struggling with the side effects, he has gone from a strong man to broken all because of this treatment. I think he is currently taking 5mg of the Axitnib and is going to query about lowering the dose.

His side effects include sore mouth, sore feet, sore down below, dry skin, blurred vision, occasional chest tightness, can no longer drink fizzy or cold drinks and always tired. Although they don't sound very extreme, this is really effecting his quality of life and he is still working. As the cancer is 'advanced' he will be on this treatment for life and said he cannot live like this and told me he will scrap the treatment if they cannot lower the dose.

I was just wondering if anybody has ever lowered the dose and felt better? Or if these side effects calm down eventually? 

just feel very helpless at the minute and it breaks my heart to see him suffering :( 

  • I'm really sorry to hear about the return of your dad's kidney cancer Rtmh97 and the difficulties he is having with his treatment.

    It must be very difficult to see how much this is effecting your dad but discussing the dosage with his team is definintely the right thing to do and hopefully a solution can be found which will make these side effects much more manageable.

    I'm sure some of our members who have had similar experiences with this cancer drug will share their stories and advice with you soon but if you'd like to discuss any of this with one of our cancer nurses, you can do so on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very supportive and will do all they can to help you and your dad at this time.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator