Treatment other than steroid

[donna j.]

GVHD-treatments other than steroids

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OK so the steroid Budesonide gave me relief from GI GVHD, however the side effects are intolerable.
Is anyone aware of any other treatment, or meds for mild-mid GI issues caused by GVHD so we think Closing of throat and esophogus and chronic queasiness?
(I am currently on Cyclosporine and Virconazole and just finished Cipro; all who multiply the side effects of the steroid on the body)

thanks

Donna

[mausmish]

Donna,

I didn't have closing of throat or esophagus but I did have chronic queasiness. My GI doctor prescribed Carafate. What helped me most with the nausea was Ativan (the smallest possible dose...0.5 mg I think) twice a day, as soon as I awakened and one before bed. Over time, I was able to reduce it to once at night, then every few days as needed, and finally none at all. The doctor told me to eat many small meals and that did help. My nausea was always worst on an empty stomach. I participated in a GVHD study at NIH and they thought I had GVHD but weren't able to confirm definitively. I did not take any steroids or immunosuppressants.

Hope this helps.

Karen

[donna j.]

Thanks Karen, will talk with Dr. tomorrow. Hope you are doing well with all on your plate.

I know my husband would prefer me on the Ativan versus the steroid. I've been flying off the handle!!!

Donna