Pain medication causing itching all over?

GregP_WN
GregP_WN Member Posts: 742
edited September 2020 in General Cancer
it's been so many years since I had pain medication regularly maybe I just don't remember, but I am having spells of itching. My head, arms, legs, everywhere basically. Normal?

Comments

  • JaneA
    JaneA Member Posts: 335
    edited August 2020
    Could be a side effect of the Keytruda. Maybe try some benedryl, especially if you don't mind taking a nap.
  • KB2013
    KB2013 Member Posts: 62
    edited August 2020
    Definitely report this to your doctor, pronto. I recently broke out all over after three days of a drug, figures. It gave me energy but, can’t use it, call your doc.
  • po18guy
    po18guy Member Posts: 329
    edited August 2020
    Itching, unless initiated by an external factor (insect sting, etc.) is generally an immune system response. An allergic reaction, or even stress (not that you've had any of THAT...) can cause the immune system to fire. I'm with KB2013. Calls are cheap.
  • kaki54
    kaki54 Member Posts: 5
    edited August 2020
    I have a high tolerance for pain. I got shingles after my 3rd chemo. A couple of weeks later the pain from shingles manifested as severe itching. The doctor at MD Anderson in Houston said that will happen to people with a high tolerance for pain.
    I agree to let your doctor know immediately. Might be something else.
  • legaljen1969
    legaljen1969 Member Posts: 763
    edited August 2020
    Yes, let the doctor know right away. I have another friend who is having to take pain medication that is making her itch. She's been trying to get it squared away with her pain management specialist who doesn't believe her that she's itching. Certain opioids are known to cause itching. He finally gave her something else to try. She said she hasn't itched all day.
    I am really hoping she gets approved for a new pain doctor soon. This one is really rude and condescending.
  • GregP_WN
    GregP_WN Member Posts: 742
    edited September 2020
    My research nurse contacted us about this issue today and confirmed what were thinking, it is from the pain medicine
  • po18guy
    po18guy Member Posts: 329
    edited August 2020
    Greg, just remembered: Are you taking opioids (Tramadol, Hydrocodone, Oxycodone)? Itch is one of the primary side effects.
    https://medicine.wustl.edu/news/new-clues-point-to-relief-for-chronic-itching/
  • petieagnor
    petieagnor Member Posts: 110
    Greg: Looks like you got some really good advice. I had some itching from my chemo in '06. Benadryl was the culprit. You just can't be too careful with any drugs.

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