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Ofev use in the elderly
I am the spouse/caregiver for my 90+ year old husband who has been recently diagnosed with ILD. He also has coronary artery disease and a 24 year survivor of quintuple bypass surgery. He’s a non-drinker, non-smoker, but does have GERD. I/we are very concerned about the side effects of these drugs and if it is prudent to even consider taking them, given his age and other physical issues. He is on 3ml oxygen while sleeping and exercising because he experiences shortness of breath. We are firm believers in quality of life and do not want him to suffer with these side effects, which may also stir up other health concerns and issues. Do any of you have friends, relatives, or yourself older than 90? Are they taking this drug and how well is it tolerated? Thanks for any input you might give us.
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4 Replies
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I am only 85 and have enjoyed good health until my diagnosis 2 years ago of IPF. I just went off OFEV after 2 years and feel like I got my life back. I’ve had daily diarrhea for all of 2 years and had to wear diapers when going out as there were sometime accidents. I’ve had overwhelming nausea and lost 20 pounds. I was not overweight. You could try it to see how you do as everyone is different. However, at our age quality of life is more important than prolonging life. Good Luck. Millie
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I am 80 just started OFEV this week. I was wondering about your diarrhea issues. I have gone to great efforts to take a small protein meal and 1 Boost protein drink with each dosing (1/2 before the pill and 1/2 after). So far, so good.
My concern is if you tried these measures and still had the constant diarrhea effect? I am dreading the day diarrhea starts, as I already have had diverticulosis issues in the past.
I am 80 years old and not even eligible for transplant. Good luck with your journey with this horrible disease.
Bev Kennedy
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Thanks for sharing your thoughts regarding Ofev and the dreaded GI side effects! I don’t know if age is associated with the effectiveness of this, and for full transparency I am not a medical professional, I am just sharing my personal experience, but sublingual Imodium worked wonders for me to stop the diahrrea from Ofev! For whatever reason the regular Imodium tablet didn’t work, just the dissolvable one under the tongue (which is also convenient when out in public and no access to water to swallow a pill). You could speak with your Pharmacist about trying this if you went on one of the anti-fibrotics and experienced that side effect.
Charlene.
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Thank you for that information. I am 9 days into taking Ofev and so far no problems. I am taking a protein snack with each dose (half before the pill and half after). Crossing my fingers!
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