Q. What is the most important information about Tecentriq Injection?
This medicine can cause your immune system to attack normal organs and tissues in any area of your body and can affect the way they work. These problems can sometimes become severe or life-threatening. You can have more than one of these problems at the same time. These problems may happen anytime during your treatment or even after your treatment has ended. Discuss in detail with your doctor.
Q. When should I call my doctor right away?
Get medical help right away if you have chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, chills or shaking, double vision, blurry vision, persistent or severe muscle pain or weakness, and muscle cramp.
Q. Can Tecentriq Injection be used during pregnancy?
No, this medicine should not be used during pregnancy as it can harm your unborn baby. Avoid getting pregnant and use an effective method of birth control during your treatment and for at least 5 months after the last dose of Tecentriq Injection.
Q. Can Tecentriq Injection be used during breastfeeding?
No, do not use this medicine while breastfeeding as it might pass into breast milk and could therefore harm your baby. Avoid breastfeeding for at least 5 months after the last dose of Tecentriq Injection.
Q. Can Tecentriq Injection affect my fertility?
Yes, this medicine may cause fertility problems in females of reproductive potential, which may affect the ability to have children. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about fertility.
Q. Does Tecentriq Injection cause hair loss?
Yes, while taking this medicine, your hair may become brittle and break. You may also experience patchy hair loss or thinning. These conditions tend to resolve once treatment is stopped. Be gentle when brushing and washing hair to manage hair loss.
Q. How will you know that Tecentriq Injection is working?
Keep taking this medicine exactly as directed until your doctor tells you to stop. Regular scans will reveal whether your tumor is responding to the treatment. Your doctor will determine when those scans should be scheduled.
Q. I have noticed some changes in my skin after taking Tecentriq Injection? What should I do?
Use a moisturizer to get relief from rashes, dry and itchy skin. Avoid direct sunlight, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen with (SPF more than 15) whenever you step outdoors. Do not go swimming if you have a rash because the chlorine in the water can make it worse. Avoid hot water bath and wear loose and cotton fabric clothes. Your skin will tend to become better once treatment is stopped.
Q. How to relieve constipation during the treatment?
To relieve constipation, include fiber in your diet (fruits and vegetables), drink 8-10 glasses of fluids a day, and keep active. A stool softener (with a doctor's prescription) once or twice a day may prevent constipation. If you do not have a bowel movement for 2-3 days, consult your doctor.
Q. I am experiencing nausea and extreme tiredness. Is this due to Tecentriq Injection?
Nausea and fatigue or tiredness are some of the common side-effects of this medicine. Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce the feeling of nausea. Avoid food that is salty, spicy, fried, or fatty. Take plenty of rest and do light exercise daily to keep yourself active and reduce fatigue.
Q. I am noticing a change in my taste. How shall I improve my taste?
You may experience a metallic taste or find that food has no taste at all. You may dislike foods or beverages that you liked before receiving cancer treatment. Rinse your mouth with a solution of salt and bicarbonate of soda before mealtimes to neutralize the bad taste in your mouth. You can also add extra flavor or seasonings to your food.
Q. What should I avoid during my treatment with Tecentriq Injection?
During your treatment, it is advisable to avoid caffeine as it can make you feel dehydrated, avoid fatty fried, spicy and overly sweet foods, as they may induce nausea, avoid alcohol and smoking. It is also advisable to avoid crowds or people with colds, as you may be at risk of infection as well as sun exposure to prevent rashes and dry skin. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor. Use caution with sharp objects like razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured.