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Nivo/ipi. Is my oncologist wrong?

Forums General Melanoma Community Nivo/ipi. Is my oncologist wrong?

  • Post
    Beany
    Participant
      Hello all,

      I posted progress of my first and second combo treatments. My doctor prescribed prednisone 5mg per day starting from the first infusion. He only gives me enough for four days then does a blood test.
      Anyway, my question is is it strange to prescribe prednisone before side effects occur?

      Thanks to Ed and Edwin for the heads up.

      Sincerely,

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    • Replies
        Bubbles
        Participant
          My short answer is – YES!!!!!!!!!!!!! Prescribing prednisone as well as other immune suppressing agents is definitely something that is needed should one experience certain side effects while on immunotherapy. However, it is absolutely NOT routinely prescribed as some sort of a preventative. In fact, I have seen no data that that would work anyway. Further, many patients make it through immunotherapy NEVER having the need to take prednisone. I took nivo as a single agent for 2 1/2 years and never (luckily) had the need for immunosuppression. If I recall your prior post properly, you are not being treated in the US? No matter where you are being treated, be sure you are being seen by a physician who is well versed in the care of melanoma patients who are being administered immunotherapy. I wish you my best. Celeste
            Beany
            Participant
              Thanks Celeste,
              I am in Japan.
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