BCG shortage

4 years 9 months ago #57736 by Momar
Replied by Momar on topic BCG shortage
I knew waiting to heal was true for BCG treatments, but I was under the impression that with chemo it needed to be started ASAP.

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4 years 9 months ago #57735 by Momar
Replied by Momar on topic BCG shortage
Thank you.

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4 years 9 months ago #57733 by sara.anne
Replied by sara.anne on topic BCG shortage
Merck, the company whose subsidiary produces BCG, has stated that they think the supplies will be back to normal by September. Unfortunately, BCG is a biological product and there is only one source in the US. This has been a recurring problem.

Gemcitibine is a recommended substitute. And one month is not too long to wait. Doctors want to give the bladder time to heal from the surgical wounds caused by the TURB procedure. Your husband is right on schedule.

Sara Anne

Diagnosis 2-08 Small papillary TCC; CIS
BCG; BCG maintenance
Vice-President, American Bladder Cancer Society
Forum Moderator

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4 years 9 months ago #57730 by Momar
BCG shortage was created by Momar
My husband had a TURBT two weeks ago today. The doctor says BCG isn’t available. Does anyone know where it might be available? His is high grade non invasive. Had two lesions. The doctor didn’t do a chemo wash after the surgery which worries me. We’re due to start Gemcitibine within the week. Seems like too long to wait to start treating. We’re seeing Dr. Guruli at VCU in Richmond. Would love some support.

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