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TINY1971
1 Posts |
 Posted - 03/24/2012 : 21:04:47
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| first post and new heard it was approved march 2012 and it is a 3 day topical treatment for aks and bcc anyone have any info it is by leo pharmaceuticals three day treatment sounds pretty good but its very expensive |
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tkdbob
13 Posts |
Posted - 04/23/2012 : 12:12:34
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| I have a script from my dermatologist for Picato and will be filling it shortly. I have tried many remedies from this site and have found PS to show good results on scc in situ on my scalp when used directly from the sap. I went back to the derm last week after applying PS about 7 weeks ago and she indicated the lesion looked much better. Not sure if the standardized version of this plant will show similar results but maybe will allow for a more controlled application..we'll see. I have a very good derm who is open to many natural remedies and willing to work with me in my pursuit of good health an kicking cancers ass :). I am also following the RAVE diet...I highly recommend googling it and if you have questions about it, I'd be happy to share.. |
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john691
7 Posts |
Posted - 05/12/2012 : 20:14:25
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| The cost of Picato gel was $51 with my insurance. I was told it was $600 without my insurance. I have three spots that were determined to be AK via biopsy. I treated one spot on my eyebrow for three days and there was almost no reaction. I treated the second spot on the bridge of my nose for four days (today is day four) and there is currently a mild reaction. I have not yet treated the third spot. The instructions called for only three days of treatment and I am hoping that an extra day of treatment will trigger a better reaction. I was expecting a more dramatic reaction. It might just be my skin as I have already done efudex, aldara, PDT, and MOHS. I have several suspicious spots elsewhere and will get a biopsy before I treat them. |
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Spot
3 Posts |
Posted - 05/20/2012 : 07:30:27
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I just started my treatment yesterday on my whole face. The reaction so far is like a mild sunburn, which is gone this morning. When I got up this morning my face was red with a blister on the side of my nose. My doctor was doing this treatment when I saw her and she has blisters all over her chin.
I will be back with day two results tomorrow, hoping no more blisters pop up.
After my insurance and a coupon from the pharmacy my cost was $ 25.00. |
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Spot
3 Posts |
Posted - 05/21/2012 : 08:01:23
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| Day two..... Sunday woke up with a slightly red face, no pain, yea. I did have a blister on the side of my nose which cleared up by mid afternoon. Not much burning yesterday after application, just a little on my forehead which didn't last long. Woke up this morning.. red again with no blisters or pain. Third and last treatment goes on this afternoon. |
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dscochran99
3 Posts |
Posted - 05/21/2012 : 22:13:41
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| Wow I'm surprised to read how mild other's reactions have been to Picato. I put my first application on about 6 hours ago and I look like I've got a really good burn. It's bumpy and blistering though it feels more like a bad wind burn. Within 20 minutes of applying it started to burn and itch. Nothing intolerable but irritatingly distracting. Kind of like getting jalapeno juice on our skin after you did a micro derm-abrasion. I am hopeful that this is a sign that will go away as quickly and I am very grateful to not have to reapply for 21 days. Has anyone had such an early reaction and what is the typical "worst day." Did your doctor prescribe Biafine and did that help? I have found nothing on the product until this website. Good Luck to everyone who is struggling through this battle. |
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Spot
3 Posts |
Posted - 05/22/2012 : 16:01:30
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Day three.....oh my god! Minutes after applying my last treatment my face started to burn. I would say the feeling was about like having a bad sunburn and then opening up a hot oven door and letting the heat hit you in the face. It felt like it was burning all the way to the bone. Then it began to itch, both continued until I was able to remove it six hours later.
Happy to say day four and no pain....I'm red, spotty with mild itching.
Seriously it was not as bad as I thought it was going to be, I had a worse reaction on my chest a couple of years ago with a different type of tropical ointment.
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lani
1 Posts |
Posted - 05/26/2012 : 18:56:35
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| I applied the picato last night to my chin and the edge of my lower lip per the directions of my doctor. Within a few minutes I felt like I was sunburned in that area. When I woke up in the morning, my chin was bright red and there were blisters all the way across the lower edge of my lip. I'm not sure if I should apply the cream tonight. This seems like a severe reaction. Any advise? |
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tw383
1 Posts |
Posted - 05/31/2012 : 13:34:08
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on the third day of picato on my forehead ,it looked so bad I thought i was having a bad reaction. but looking at the picture chart mine was the worst case. Today is the 5th day and is better. My dermatologist prescibed Hydrocortisone cream and this helps
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anivoc
668 Posts |
Posted - 06/01/2012 : 18:13:42
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| Glad it seems to be working keep us posted and if you are willing take pictures and share. |
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7iron150
1 Posts |
Posted - 06/02/2012 : 11:08:38
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| Today is day 4 of my Picato treatment. My experience is very similar to other posts...day 1 redness. day 2 burning, blisters, etc... day 3 more burning, itching, blisters, extreme redness. Considering how bad my face looks, the pain is relatively mild i guess. Woke up today on day 4 and the blisters are gone, and my face feels about 100% better than during treatment days. The area that i applied the gel (under my right eye to my temple, about a 1-1/2 x 1-1/2 area)is crazy red. It looks like in the next few days it might start peeling or scabbing. Has anyone that is farther along in the recovery process had any luck with products that reduce symptoms? Also, when did you start to see the redness fade? greatly appreciate any feedback from others, as there is very little info out there about picato. if anyone is getting ready to start treatment and has questions, i'd be happy to give any help i can as someone that has made it thru...yeah! |
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tkdbob
13 Posts |
Posted - 06/19/2012 : 17:45:30
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Expensive, yes..but may be well worth it. Its been about 5 weeks after my 3 day application of Picato. I had previously tried PS sap two times for scc in situ on my scalp. The reactions are very similar but the Picato was stronger. I believe its because of the amount you have to work with and feel it is more consistent/standardized.
From what I can see it did a pretty good job and my wife says its hardly noticeable. I have an appointment with my Memorial Sloan Kettering Derm who prescribed it next week to get a clinical update.
Stay healthy,
Bob
quote:
Originally posted by TINY1971
first post and new heard it was approved march 2012 and it is a 3 day topical treatment for aks and bcc anyone have any info it is by leo pharmaceuticals three day treatment sounds pretty good but its very expensive
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dreamz
1 Posts |
Posted - 06/21/2012 : 10:12:48
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| Wow.....Three days of treatment with "picato" and my forehead was BLISTERED... Four days after last treatment, forehead is still red and with blisters.... Not sure that I am on board with this typr of treatment... |
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BBirdz
10 Posts |
Posted - 06/21/2012 : 10:54:15
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Bob-
What strength did you use? I believe it comes in two- the lighter one being for the face. Glad to hear he prescribed it for cancer. I thought it was only approved for AK's at this point. THanks- Becky
quote:
Originally posted by tkdbob
Expensive, yes..but may be well worth it. Its been about 5 weeks after my 3 day application of Picato. I had previously tried PS sap two times for scc in situ on my scalp. The reactions are very similar but the Picato was stronger. I believe its because of the amount you have to work with and feel it is more consistent/standardized.
From what I can see it did a pretty good job and my wife says its hardly noticeable. I have an appointment with my Memorial Sloan Kettering Derm who prescribed it next week to get a clinical update.
Stay healthy,
Bob
quote:
Originally posted by TINY1971
first post and new heard it was approved march 2012 and it is a 3 day topical treatment for aks and bcc anyone have any info it is by leo pharmaceuticals three day treatment sounds pretty good but its very expensive
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loeys10
1 Posts |
Posted - 07/10/2012 : 20:12:33
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| I am on day 2 of a 3 day dosage of Picato to apply to my nose. About an hour ago, I touched the side of my nose and some cracked skin rubbed off. It didn't hurt at all, but the skin that is left is very raw and red and is kind of like oozing oil (sorry if this grosses anyone out). Just wondering if anyone knows whether I should put anything on that to kind of protect it like polysporin or neosporin? Also, does anyone know whether I should be expecting this to happen to my whole nose and how long it should take to heal up? Thanks! :) |
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tkdbob
13 Posts |
Posted - 07/13/2012 : 12:03:14
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Hi Becky,
The strength was 0.015%. According to the 2011 British Journal of Medicine, they determined the sap from Euphorbia peplus was effective against nonmelanoma skin cancers (BCC, SCC and IEC). My last visit to the derm 2 weeks ago was very favorable - she said it looks very good and come back in 3 months. As far as my opionion, its the best results so far from all the non-surgical treatments I had. We'll see as time goes on but I continue to stay strict in my diet, which I beleive, is the a must.
Bob
quote:
Originally posted by BBirdz
What strength did you use? I believe it comes in two- the lighter one being for the face. Glad to hear he prescribed it for cancer. I thought it was only approved for AK's at this point. THanks- Becky
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Edited by - anivoc on 07/14/2012 08:58:58 |
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beachwoodoh
7 Posts |
Posted - 07/26/2012 : 21:39:54
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My dr. is having me use one tube of gel for 3 days (the same tube) on one part of my face at a time. I started six days ago on my nose and upper cheeks.
I applied it first thing in the morning.
Day 1: Skin got tight after a couple hours. No real pain. Washed face that night.
Day 2: Skin was bright red, looked and felt like a severe sunburn. Very very sore. Eyes were almost swollen shut when I woke up (skin under eyes). After a couple hours, put Aquaphor on it. Washed face that night. Took 800 mg Ibuprofen and a sleeping pill.
Day 3: Immense pain--- felt like my nose and cheeks were on fire. Very red, sore. Swollen eyes again first thing in the morning. Felt just miserable all day. Counted down the minutes til 8 hours had passed, then washed off. Used Aquaphor. Ibuprofen and sleeping pill.
Day 4: Woke up with NO pain! Swollen eyes. Skin was very red, blistering. Used Aquaphor.
Day 5: Skin still very red, but starting to peel. Swollen eyes in morning. Lots of Aquaphor.
Day 6 (today): Lots of peeling. Eyes much less swollen. Skin is soooooo itchy. Washed it several times with a mild face soap. Used lots of Aquaphor.
I'll wait and use the gel on my forehead, then chin/lower cheeks in the fall. |
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tkdbob
13 Posts |
Posted - 07/30/2012 : 14:18:53
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Your reaction is normal from my experience and wish you the best in results. You have some applications near your eyes..just be VERY careful. The directions indicated not to reuse the tubes after opening, however. Not sure exactly why and neither did my derm. The redness dissipates over time but its still chemical surgery.
quote:
Originally posted by beachwoodoh
My dr. is having me use one tube of gel for 3 days (the same tube) on one part of my face at a time. I started six days ago on my nose and upper cheeks.
I applied it first thing in the morning.
Day 1: Skin got tight after a couple hours. No real pain. Washed face that night.
Day 2: Skin was bright red, looked and felt like a severe sunburn. Very very sore. Eyes were almost swollen shut when I woke up (skin under eyes). After a couple hours, put Aquaphor on it. Washed face that night. Took 800 mg Ibuprofen and a sleeping pill.
Day 3: Immense pain--- felt like my nose and cheeks were on fire. Very red, sore. Swollen eyes again first thing in the morning. Felt just miserable all day. Counted down the minutes til 8 hours had passed, then washed off. Used Aquaphor. Ibuprofen and sleeping pill.
Day 4: Woke up with NO pain! Swollen eyes. Skin was very red, blistering. Used Aquaphor.
Day 5: Skin still very red, but starting to peel. Swollen eyes in morning. Lots of Aquaphor.
Day 6 (today): Lots of peeling. Eyes much less swollen. Skin is soooooo itchy. Washed it several times with a mild face soap. Used lots of Aquaphor.
I'll wait and use the gel on my forehead, then chin/lower cheeks in the fall.
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Rick
3 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2012 : 19:55:27
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My derm has given me prescriptions for both 5-FU and Picato. (btw, the Picato cost is $90 for 3 boxes.)
He is a strong advocate of 5-FU, and was also quite enthusiastic about Picato after the FDA approval. He does not have a lot of experience with patients using Picato because of the relatively short time since approval, and the fact that the prescription price can be out of reach for many patients.
However, based on what he has observed so far with Picato, he is recommending that I do 5-FU rather than Picato because he believes that 5-FU offers much better targeting of cancerous cells than Picato, which he feels causes excess side effects even in non-damaged cells. He is also quite sensitive to my need not to check out from work for a long period of time, which was the primary reason he was so excited about Picato.
I am very interested to hear the reaction to these concerns from people here who have used Picato (and 5-FU).
Does Picato indeed target everything, even actinically undamaged skin?
And how soon after the 3-day treatment period do people feel they can return to work without feeling overly self-conscious.
Thanks,
Rick |
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annieh
41 Posts |
Posted - 07/31/2012 : 23:42:36
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| Does anyone know when Picato will be available in Australia? It's so ironic that the product was invented and researched originally in Australia and we are the last ones to get it :( |
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Pussums
1 Posts |
Posted - 08/06/2012 : 06:51:09
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| Has anyone tried the prescription "Picato Gel"? It is the pharmacy version of Euphorbia peplus. |
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amyo
1 Posts |
Posted - 08/08/2012 : 06:13:08
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| Just started the .015 gel all over my face per my dr. last night. This morning my eyes are nearly swollen shut and my face is swollen and bright red. Is this a normal reaction? Also it was fairly painful last night and I didn't sleep well because I could feel my face pulsing with each heartbeat. Not sure I can take doing it again tonight on top of the reaction I've already had. Also, I've got to work - how many days am I going to look like a freak! |
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nphoffmann
2 Posts |
Posted - 08/08/2012 : 14:11:38
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| I started using Picato gel last Friday evening. I paid only $25 using their refund card. I put the gel from one of the 3 vials onto my left cheek, bridge of nose, patch on forehead, etc. By morning I looked like I had really bad sun poisoning - or been in a fight. It was quite painful, ugly and swollen. I was worried about it not clearing up in time for the start of a new job and the pain of putting it on two more times - so I didn't. It is now Wed. morning. I've used lots of aloe and moisturizers this week. My skin was finally peeling. To clean up the broken blisters and scaling skin I used a mild scrub and wash cloth. It was great. It cleared up most of my skin beautifully. Sorry I chickened out on the 3-day regiment, but I still got good results. Probably could have been better, but I'm pleased. I'm very fair and have freckles-perhaps I didn't need as much as other people. |
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dick123
1 Posts |
Posted - 08/09/2012 : 11:09:09
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My dermatologist has prescribed .015% Picato to use on my face, scalp, and ears and also .05% Picato to use on my forearms and back of my hands. Most of the postings I have seen on this forum have been for use of .015% on the face and the reports of after-affects have been disturbing.
Has anyone used the stronger .05% and if so, what has been your experience. Also, the understanding I had gotten from the dermatologist was that I should apply the gel over an area, rather than to specific spots. However, the directions with the prescription indicate that enough is provided for a 2 inch by 2 inch area, which is much less than the total area on my hands and forearms. To say the least, I am confusd and very apprehensive.
Even though I have already paid $250 copay (didn't know that coupon was available), I don't intend to use anything until I discuss further with the dermatologist on August 20th. However, I would appreciate any feedback or advice before that time.
Thanks.......Dick |
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nphoffmann
2 Posts |
Posted - 08/09/2012 : 13:37:05
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The tube of gel goes a lot further than you think. You don't need to use much. I focused on the problem areas.
The coupon from the pharma was provided by my doc. Brought the price to $25. |
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tkdbob
13 Posts |
Posted - 08/20/2012 : 10:08:15
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It's been about a month since my last post. I had applied Picato gel to a clinically diagnosed SCC on my scalp. The usual 3 day application. It got a little ugly - oozing, scabbing, redness, etc as expected from this chemical surgery back in late April 2012. Once you stop the application, it starts to heal quickly just as when I used the PS sap directly from the plant. The gel is more concentrated, I feel. The area now is smooth and looks better than anything else I have tried to date. Another checkup with the derm the end of Sept for another clinical staging.
Note: I had coupled this treatment with a vegan diet, exercise and whole food supplements. I am very happy with the results so far and, in my opinion, is the best treatment at this time for me. |
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jessica21
2 Posts |
Posted - 08/22/2012 : 10:42:11
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| My Picato is arriving today. Is there any kind of ointment or lotion I am supposed to use to ease the burnign and blistering? |
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jessica21
2 Posts |
Posted - 08/22/2012 : 10:48:56
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| My Picato is arriving today. Is there any kind of ointment or lotion I am supposed to use to ease the burning and blistering I am anticipating? |
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beachwoodoh
7 Posts |
Posted - 08/26/2012 : 23:05:17
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| I used Aquaphor. |
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beachwoodoh
7 Posts |
Posted - 09/01/2012 : 22:34:44
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| At the end of July, I used Picato on my nose and top of cheeks. My experiences are described in an earlier post. This week, I used a second tube of the gel on my forehead. It has been a totally different experience (thank goodness). My skin is red, feels tight, there's some blistering--- BUT, no agonizing pain, no difficulty sleeping. I'm going to save the third vial until after my dermatologist appt in October, just in case there are any areas he recommends I use it on--- otherwise, will apply to my chin and lower cheeks. |
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ddietrich88
1 Posts |
Posted - 09/05/2012 : 11:10:57
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I'm on day 3 of Picato treatment but haven't applied third time yet, though (can't really imagine putting the gel on another time). Yesterday my skin was red and itchy, but when I applied the gel (all over forehead, nose, chin, jaw, cheeks -- I was told to apply it to the rough patches and along the edges of my face as well as my nose, so I had a lot to cover), my face really started burning a lot. I did seem to have more in the tube than I needed and may have applied too much, which is hard to imagine from such a tiny tube, but it was so much worse than the first application! Very, very painful
I ended up pressing a wet tissue against my skin to try to cool it down and also absorb a bit of the gel back off my skin. Didn't really work and made my skin redder, so I tried calendula cream because I didn't have any hydrocortisone. It felt good going on, but then felt bad again. I had to lie on my back and not move to fall asleep. Couldn't smile or frown, my skin was so tight. In the middle of the night, when I could see it had been six hours, I washed my face and put on my normal moisturizer (it has sunscreen in it, which could augment the stinging, I guess). I wanted to put Aquafor all over my face but didn't think that would be too great for its zit health. It hurt to apply the lotion, but when I woke up, the pain was gone.
This morning, it's highly sensitive to touch, rough, bumpy, oily, rougher in some spots. I'm going to call the doctor to get advice on how and when to treat the reactions both following treatment and tomorrow. |
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beachwoodoh
7 Posts |
Posted - 09/05/2012 : 20:35:40
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ddietrich88---- It sounds like you are having the common reactions many of the other posters have described. I can't imagine putting it on at night----- I put it on in the morning. If you read my post of July 26, I tried to describe the first few days using Picato. Personally, I wouldn't worry about the zit-factor with Aquaphor------ you'll only use it for a short time, and -- for me--- it's the only moisturizer that gave me absolutely no pain when it was applied.
Good luck--- hope you don't have to work tomorrow, and can catch up on sleep soon. Keep us posted!
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beachwoodoh
7 Posts |
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golfnfish
2 Posts |
Posted - 09/11/2012 : 12:07:32
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Hi,
New poster after I saw the site referenced on the cancer compass site referenced above. I have several posts regarding my experiences with Picato on that forum. My Dr and I were initially very excited to try Picato after it was approved. I have extensive AKs over face, neck & cheat, arms, hands amd legs. Basically just about anywhere I have gotten a lot of sun exposure. I had started treatment with fluorouracil 5% back in March. Treatment on left side of forehead wasn't bad but treatment on my lower left arm and hand (2x day for 4 weeks) turned my skin to raw hamburger meat. It took another 4 or 5 weeks after treatment ended for them to heal. To be able to use Picato only once a day for 3 days and get the same effect seemed very desirable.
Decided to try my lower right arm with Picato .05%. First problem was that it took a lot of tubes to cover the area. That said, the reaction was quick and at the end of the 3 days my arm was blistered and weeping. After healing, however, my skin was not nearly as clear as my left arm where I used fluorouracil. After healing, my Dr biopsied a couple of previous AK spots and the biopsy showed it had not killed the damaged cells much below just the surface area. We tried it on my right hand and got the same results. He said he was troubled that he could find no where in the clinical studies where the efficacy in killing damaged cells was tested or reported on. He contacted the FDA (he is on staff at a teaching hospital) and they replied they required no efficacy testing for AK approval.
I am of the opinion that for ME, and only me, fluorouracil is more effective in treatment of the widespread AKs I have. My Dr advises I use it for spot treatment only.
I just wanted to share my experiences with the treatment and the opinion of my DR and some of his dermatologist colleagues. It may work wonderfully for others and completely kill the damaged cells.
His opinion, and it is only one opinion, is that Picato is similar to a surface acid burn and does not specifically target damaged cells beyond the surface level of the skin.
Sorry for the lengthy post.
John |
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dolfan
39 Posts |
Posted - 09/11/2012 : 16:43:23
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| Thanks John, you know it's funny and sad at the same time....no LOL, because I'm in fear of the inevitable, but I think efudex is my only answer and I need to do it quick. I'm afraid of what will happen if I wait and I'm more afraid to see what is going to happen after I start using it. |
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Rick
3 Posts |
Posted - 09/11/2012 : 19:59:51
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John,
Thanks a lot -- really useful information.
I had already decided in favor of 5-FU over Picato -- your experience reinforces my own concerns about Picato.
Rick |
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john691
7 Posts |
Posted - 09/11/2012 : 20:29:22
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Hi John,
Thanks for posting. Similarly, I have been a little disappointed with Picato though I am still exploring dose and duration. I have used both Efudex and Aldara prior to Picato. In all cases, my reaction to Picato has been mild in comparison to Efudex and Aldara; and, mild compared to the other posting (mild, in this case, is used on a scale that begins with Jalapeno hot). My most recent treatment consists of a biopsy, then four days of 0.05% Picato to spots or small areas on my face/scalp, then a biopsy. This is three times the recommended dose for twice as long (for the face). Biopsy indicates AK both before and after applying Picato for previous treatments (the most current treatment is in progress). I use photos of my prior Aldara treatment as a road map to assist in identifying candidate treatment areas/spots. Your experience is one of a few that has been similar to mine. My current hypothesis is that does and duration may be different for each person. I am concerned about the side effects for long Picato treatments so I am limiting the treatment to spots or very small areas.
John |
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golfnfish
2 Posts |
Posted - 09/12/2012 : 09:08:20
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Thanks for all the replies. It's nice to know others have had similar experiences.
Dolfan, I know how you feel. I have told my Dr. that the 5-FU is basically like a treatment from hell given the duration of application, effects on my skin, and time required for healing.
I really feel I have no choice, however, given the extent of the AK I have on most of my body. The alternative of an increased chance of developing and having cancers cut out and possibly mestasising leaves me with no choice but to follow through with the treatment. Hopefully this will pay dividends down the road with fewer, or no, BCCs or SCCs.
Best of luck to everyone in their treatment.
John |
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LEO Pharma
1 Posts |
Posted - 09/21/2012 : 06:44:21
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| Hello! I work for LEO Pharma, Inc, the manufacturer of Picato® (ingenol mebutate)gel. If you would like to report suspected adverse reactions, please contact LEO Pharma, Inc at 1-877-494-4536, option #1 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or fda.gov/medwatch. |
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Tim
1 Posts |
Posted - 10/06/2012 : 17:41:01
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| Can you use Picato (.05%) on lower lip? Anyone had experience with it? Thanks. |
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anivoc
668 Posts |
Posted - 10/06/2012 : 20:39:46
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Hey Tim,
I am assuming you are speaking with a Dermatologist as I don't think you can buy Picato direct as of yet. If he advises to use it it is probably OK.
Here's the deal here..we are just lay people trying alternative methods to deal with non melanoma skin cancers that said..and this is just my non professional opinion and observations therein having been Bloodroot paste and petty Spurge user. If these lesion is A Basal cell carcinoma these topicals seem to work..anywhere..Lips seem to be a very common place to get skin cancer as many people come here speaking of it.. I am pretty sure I have an AK on my bottom lip that I have been hitting with various things like Orange oil to hold it at bay.. I have definitely made it smaller but it is definitely still there...
Picato gel as I understand it is the extract from Petty Spurge.. So if you apply it you're going to have similar reactions as to the people here on this site have posted.. You owe it to yourself to go through these topics here on the forum and educate yourself a bit so you have a clear idea of what to expect all on your own.. Lots of people here that will respond and give you their experiences, advice and hope... Good Luck!
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Edited by - anivoc on 10/06/2012 20:40:25 |
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Rjcrice
1 Posts |
Posted - 10/07/2012 : 23:57:50
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| Just finished the third day of application yesterday. I just used the gel just on the flaking areas of my face, the eyebrows, cheeks and temples. Got a strong reaction like many others. I'm certainly glad I did not put it all over my face. That would have been pretty painful. My strong advice is DO NOT APPLY JUST BEFORE GOING TO BED. The stinging and discomfort kept me from sleeping well for two nights. The second night I had to get up to take aspirin and put a cold compress on my face. On the third day I waited and applied it in the morning. I think lying down for the first 5 to 6 hours after application made the discomfort worse. After about 6 hours the strong stinging subsides. Good luck! |
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accfan
10 Posts |
Posted - 10/08/2012 : 14:12:50
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| My dr. recommended Picato for my face due to my relatively mild AK (doc has not tried it with any patients yet, afraid to use it on patients with severe AK). However, I have two concerns, barely addressed in this forum so far; I'm hopeful folks will respond if they can. First, everything I read says AK may lead to scc, but I have only had bcc's on my face. Does that matter? Second, my dr. said I would apply it to my whole face, but the prescribing information seems to imply that it should be limited to a 2" x 2" area (similar to imiquimod). What have others heard from their doctors on this? Thanks. |
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Rick
3 Posts |
Posted - 10/08/2012 : 15:07:55
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Concerning SCC vs BCC, the issue is reall that you have AKs, and Picato (like 5FU) treats them.
Consider yourself fortunate (ie lucky) that none of your AKs have progressed to SCC.
fwiw, my derm prescribed 3 boxes (each with 3 daily treatments) to cover close to entire face. I chose not to do it now.
I have only done brief tests of 5FU and Picato on chest, so I have less experience than others here.
But both my derms prefer 5FU because you can much better control the trajectory of the treatment, ie titrate down if you are getting too much impact
Rick |
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accfan
10 Posts |
Posted - 10/09/2012 : 15:15:59
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| Thanks for the helpful feedback, Rick. My derm left it up to me to choose between 5FU and Picato. The 3-day treatment period for Picato sounded very enticing, although after reading all the posts here (including your comments), I'm leaning toward the 5FU. |
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kdw57
1 Posts |
Posted - 10/09/2012 : 18:01:24
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| New to forum; hope i'm doing this right. Just got my script for Picato filled and need to start it in the morning (10-10). Going on a Mission Trip with my church on 10-20 to Peru and don't want to scare anyone. Can anyone tell me how long the swelling and irritation will last after treatment is started. Will be using it on bridge of my nose (have had same place frozen X2 with little success)? I also was prescribed Bionect cream for redness and irritation. |
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beachwoodoh
7 Posts |
Posted - 10/10/2012 : 11:43:18
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| kdw57: I described my reaction to using Picato on my nose/upper cheeks on July 26. Hope that helps! |
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Janice Adkins
1 Posts |
Posted - 10/19/2012 : 09:29:03
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| I was prescribed the Picato Gel and fiven a co-pay card issued by McKesson, given to me by my P.A. for a reduced cost for this gel. She explained to me it was new on the market and thought it would give me excellent results. Too bad I can't afford it. I live in a small community in NW FL and have BCBS of FL insurance. The pharmacy said the insurance company would not pay a penny toward my prescription. Even though I have the RX plan with co-pays for generic and name brand scrips. The pharmacist told me that with the discount card my cost would be $443.00 and without the discount card it would be over $600.00!!!! I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I see where it cost one of the forum respondents, $51.00. I don't understand what is going on with the cost. My insurance company paid for the most part, 2 lasar procedures on my face, but won't pay a penny on this prescription. I'm waiting to hear from my P.A. on what the next step will be. I guess I will get another lasar treatment! |
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kitten9
7 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2012 : 23:10:58
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What exactly is an adverse reaction? I used it one time, only on AK's and got big ole' blisters like the worst sunburn I have ever had 30 years ago! I used the 0.015%. I did not smear it all over, only used on the AK's, nose, cheek, forehead. Thanks. Red, burning, tightness, throbbing, then blisters within 2 hours. quote:
Originally posted by LEO Pharma
Hello! I work for LEO Pharma, Inc, the manufacturer of Picato® (ingenol mebutate)gel. If you would like to report suspected adverse reactions, please contact LEO Pharma, Inc at 1-877-494-4536, option #1 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or fda.gov/medwatch.
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jackkemp3
1 Posts |
Posted - 11/11/2012 : 13:53:45
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| Having had all the other cream treatments, I was excited to try Picato gel. Red hair, 70 years old. Very expensive. Under Dermo care had no reaction or results. Very disappointed. Have now undergone Levulan blue light treatment. Like the fact that it is much faster than creams. |
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Bill H
1 Posts |
Posted - 11/11/2012 : 15:37:58
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| I received a prescription from my derma. and started application on Thurs. 11/8/12.I was instructed to apply this gel for 3 days.Its now Sun. 11/11/12 and I have had a very negative reaction to this stuff.I only wish that I had paid more attention to the potential side effects.My scalp is very red and sensitive.A lot like a real bad sunburn.The two small places on my face are considerably worse.I shaved this morning and on one side there was no problem;however on the left side shaving removed a layer of my skin.This side of my face is so sore that I can't even apply aloe lotion on it.It burns and I had to wash it off.This side is also extremely sore and red.I'am scheduled to undergo Blu-U treatment on 11/20 12,but that is NOT GOING TO HAPPEN! I feel like I received the prescription from Hell.I'll call my Dr. on Mon. and cancel that procedure at this time.I just want to get an appointment with him and see what can be done to reverse the side effects of this Hell Gel.I certainly hope that everyone else does not experience these same side effects! |
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anivoc
668 Posts |
Posted - 11/12/2012 : 01:06:00
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| Wow..first report of no effect with picato gell ..definitely interested in hearing about your levulan blue light procedure experience. |
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kerry
1 Posts |
Posted - 11/12/2012 : 18:31:37
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I am curious as to how long I will need to be out of work? I was told to use it and expect to see results within 5 days, not according to what I've read. I work with children and do not want to look like a monster! |
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kitten9
7 Posts |
Posted - 11/12/2012 : 19:26:51
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If your reaction is blisters, they take 24 -48 hours to drain or pop, then 3 - 4 days of redness, peeling, don't force any peeling. If I try it again, I'll apply it with a toothpick. A little goes a long way.
Use Aquafor to keep spots moist, don't pick! At 6-7 days barely visible, although I can see the new tissue with a magnifying mirror. I also used a beige concealer. |
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kitten9
7 Posts |
Posted - 11/12/2012 : 19:36:54
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Oh yes, mine was $25 with the coupon, no insurance was used. My Life Insurance Co. tried to cancel me upon renewal. I guess I signed a waiver, they could see all my
Rxs!
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pbl54
1 Posts |
Posted - 02/03/2013 : 22:07:35
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| Hi. Picato gel has only today, 4th Feb 2013, been released in Australia. Could anybody tell me the cost per dose. Of course, its not on the PBS yet so will probably be pretty expensive... |
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accfan
10 Posts |
Posted - 02/04/2013 : 06:42:55
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| Hi pbl54. I completed a 3-day course of Picato in January 2013. I had met my insurance deductible, so there was no cost to me. My receipt said my insurance saved me about US $675.00 for the Rx. Of course, it could be entirely different in Australia. Good luck. |
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Lee
2 Posts |
Posted - 02/08/2013 : 13:35:54
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| I had to pay for the Picato out of my pocket which would be $600.00 . At the pharmacy they told me to go back to the Dr. and see if they had some type of coupon. I went back to the Dr. and they gave me a plastic card to activate with the drug company. If I had not found that out the Dr. office would have NOT shared the information. I then went and got the drug. I used this credit card from the drug manufacture of Picato and they took $250.00 off the cost of the $600.00 . I started mine today on my forehead. Within hours a red patch appeared on the area but no effect so far. I am to use it only twice. Yesterday the drug manufacture called and told me they would get back to me in 3 months to follow up on how well the drug worked . They did advise me of all the side effects and were very helpful and reassuring since I was so nervous to use this . I got more information from them then from my own Dr. |
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dasnyder
5 Posts |
Posted - 02/11/2013 : 12:22:55
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My insurance paid $1,870 - my co-pay was $30..00. I am shocked at the differences in prices from everyone (maybe it's because I am in Connecticut?)
I have a question I hope someone can answer. I was given three boxes of Picato - one to use each night for three nights. When I opened the first box, it had three tubes, but the instructions were to use one tube a night. I actually have 9 tubes and wonder if I was suppose to use three each night because I am covering my whole face. Has anyone else had this question? I am unable to get my doctor today and the pharmacist was unable to answer my question.
I'd appreciate your thoughts.
Dot |
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dasnyder
5 Posts |
Posted - 02/11/2013 : 12:27:29
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quote:
Originally posted by Spot
I just started my treatment yesterday on my whole face. The reaction so far is like a mild sunburn, which is gone this morning. When I got up this morning my face was red with a blister on the side of my nose. My doctor was doing this treatment when I saw her and she has blisters all over her chin.
I will be back with day two results tomorrow, hoping no more blisters pop up.
After my insurance and a coupon from the pharmacy my cost was $ 25.00.
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dasnyder
5 Posts |
Posted - 02/11/2013 : 12:32:45
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I tried to send a question to "Spot" and apparently did something wrong. Now the message Spot sent is in my name *(sorry about that!)
I wanted to ask Spot if he/she needed to use three tubes a night to cover the whole face.
Thanks.
Dot |
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Lee
2 Posts |
Posted - 02/11/2013 : 13:14:37
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| Today is day 4 . I only did the treatment for 2 days . I got 3 tubs and used only 1 tub. Please tell anyone to get a plastic card from the Dr. so you can get the discount from the company. It saved me $200.00 The first day was the worse, but only mild tingling of the face. The 2nd day really was much easier. By the 3rd day, now of no treatment it was like an open wound and I spotted on the pillow case and sheets much more on the 4th night my sheets pillow case and sheets were very spotted with what looked like blood. I have no tingling from the spot . The spot is VERY read and looks nasty. |
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accfan
10 Posts |
Posted - 02/11/2013 : 14:42:58
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Hi dasnyder. The reason your insurance paid $1,870 is because you got the equivalent of 3 treatments. A normal course is 3 tubes in one box - you got 3 boxes of 3. The package insert says only apply to a 2 inch x 2 inch area, so clearly your dermatologist is going "off label" in your case.
Each person's reaction is different. If I had covered my entire face, I don't think I would have been able to sleep without pain killers. However, my doctor told me of another patient who had no reaction at all. My worst day was day 4 (after 3 days on). I wish you the best. |
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Sibo10
10 Posts |
Posted - 02/19/2013 : 04:31:15
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My experience with my first treatment with Picato on my scalp was intense pain, burning, intense attacks of goose-pimples (which was very painful when the skin on the scalp contracted). The reaction may depend on the level of the keratosis. In January I had 3 positive tumors surgically removed (thankfully small ones).
I was told not to use any creams or salves to reduce the reaction/pain as it is not yet known if they can 'negate' the process of Picato. So, grin and bear it (grimace and bear it?). It also states clearly that the treated area should not be covered. We suspect the active ingredient is UV sensitive; it needs light to function.
My second treatment starts on Friday and I am a 'bit' nervous.
(An interesting aside; here in Germany the treatment without insurance costs €150,00 - $200,00, so at $600 you are (again) being scammed by your drug companies  )
It's interesting to see how many are getting different advice from their skin doctors. In the instruction is specifically says that the COMPLETE treatment of three tubes should be used, (one per 24 hours). And the dermatologist who prescribed three tubes for the whole face obviously has no idea what he is doing. The treatment is for 4 sq inches (25 sq cm).
I've attached images of my treatment, after 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 8 days and 15 days.
Picato after 1 day:
42.41 KB
Picato after 2 days:
32.47 KB
Picato after 3 days:
32.23 KB
Picato after 8 days:
24 KB
Picato after 15 days:
36.39 KB |
Edited by - Sibo10 on 02/19/2013 12:14:33 |
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kitten9
7 Posts |
Posted - 02/19/2013 : 11:53:15
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quote:
Originally posted by accfan
My dr. recommended Picato for my face due to my relatively mild AK (doc has not tried it with any patients yet, afraid to use it on patients with severe AK). However, I have two concerns, barely addressed in this forum so far; I'm hopeful folks will respond if they can. First, everything I read says AK may lead to scc, but I have only had bcc's on my face. Does that matter? Second, my dr. said I would apply it to my whole face, but the prescribing information seems to imply that it should be limited to a 2" x 2" area (similar to imiquimod). What have others heard from their doctors on this? Thanks.
Yes, no more than a 2" x 2" area my Dr says. |
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Sibo10
10 Posts |
Posted - 02/19/2013 : 12:08:28
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quote:
Originally posted by kitten9
quote:
Originally posted by accfan
My dr. recommended Picato for my face due to my relatively mild AK (doc has not tried it with any patients yet, afraid to use it on patients with severe AK). However, I have two concerns, barely addressed in this forum so far; I'm hopeful folks will respond if they can. First, everything I read says AK may lead to scc, but I have only had bcc's on my face. Does that matter? Second, my dr. said I would apply it to my whole face, but the prescribing information seems to imply that it should be limited to a 2" x 2" area (similar to imiquimod). What have others heard from their doctors on this? Thanks.
Yes, no more than a 2" x 2" area my Dr says.
This is clearly stated in the instructions. The medicine is made in a concentrate for this size area. My doctor And I are trying this to save me from more cut & sew. Will have a sample of the area taken in the next week to send off for testing. Hopefully the results will be positive (negative).
I#m also reading that people are using creams to reduce the reaction to the medicine*. A bit silly in my opinion. Picato is basically a poison and it has to be left to do it's work - as nasty as it can be.
*Like drinking a few shots and beers after taking a headache pill.
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Edited by - Sibo10 on 02/19/2013 12:13:02 |
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accfan
10 Posts |
Posted - 02/27/2013 : 15:10:34
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| After a 3-day course of Picato on my nose Jan. 1-3, 2013, I got word today that a biopsy taken from my nose on 2/22/13 is positive for basal cell carcinoma. Needless to say, I'm not pleased. Wondering if I should try effudex. I know we're all unique, but I'm curious if anyone has tried both treatments, and how they compared - especially in effectiveness. |
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john691
7 Posts |
Posted - 02/27/2013 : 15:55:11
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| There is no simple answer to your question. I have used Effudex on my nose along with many other topical treatments. Numerous MOHS surgery, a forehead flap repair, and subsequent MOHS followed. If you think your BCC may be extensive, you might consider punch biopsies to determine the degree to which it has spread. Effudex, in my case, did not go deep enough and just helped to hide the real issue. A year ago, I went to the dermatologist for what I thought was a small spot but it was quite extensive. It is important to make sure that your treatment removes all of the BCC. If you decide on a topical treatment, a follow-up biopsy is a good idea. If you think that it is extensive and fear losing your nose, then consider Erivedge (vismodgeib), but this is not for the faint of heart. Good luck and let us know how it goes. |
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Trinda3
4 Posts |
Posted - 02/27/2013 : 17:04:15
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I am on day 2 of Picato, I have had bcc and scc removed by mohs. I was a sun worshiper and am blonde haired and blue eyed. I have had active FX (laser) on my face twice and thought it would remove the cancer. I have a lot less wrinkles but then had the cancer surgically removed. The last mohs they said it looked like someone opened me up and sprinkled pepper and I would be back. My derm prescribed Picato in hopes I won't have to go back. I had no keritosis that I could feel before my first application and now I can feel them all over my forehead and temples. Both my surgeries were to my left temple. I used efudex several times it only worked the first time. My face is red itches, I use it in the morning and wash it off after 6-7 hours. I called this morning and they said not to use anything on my face for two weeks after the first treatment. I really appreciate everyone's input and will report back. |
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elaineb29
1 Posts |
Posted - 02/28/2013 : 12:09:00
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Has anyone used picato gel on hands, arms or chest.
I am supposed to start it and would like to hear what others have experienced. |
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accfan
10 Posts |
Posted - 02/28/2013 : 13:22:15
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Thanks for the helpful background info, John691. After reading your post and that of Trinda3, I'm probably overreacting. This is just the 4th BCC on my nose. So far, no flaps, etc., although my derm said she may send me to plastic surgery to close this one, so maybe the biopsy doesn't look so good. This is the 3rd BCC on my nose in one year (Feb-Jun-Feb). I'm curious if that sounds typical. My derm has not seemed concerned, but it does make me wonder about the long term. If this keeps up, I may have to look into that Erivedge. Thanks again.
quote:
Originally posted by john691
There is no simple answer to your question. I have used Effudex on my nose along with many other topical treatments. Numerous MOHS surgery, a forehead flap repair, and subsequent MOHS followed. If you think your BCC may be extensive, you might consider punch biopsies to determine the degree to which it has spread. Effudex, in my case, did not go deep enough and just helped to hide the real issue. A year ago, I went to the dermatologist for what I thought was a small spot but it was quite extensive. It is important to make sure that your treatment removes all of the BCC. If you decide on a topical treatment, a follow-up biopsy is a good idea. If you think that it is extensive and fear losing your nose, then consider Erivedge (vismodgeib), but this is not for the faint of heart. Good luck and let us know how it goes.
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john691
7 Posts |
Posted - 03/01/2013 : 14:23:47
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| My experience with plastic surgery is that it does not need to happen right away. The first time I needed my nose repaired I felt a sense of urgency to get it done as soon as possible. It turned out that I had to wait two weeks for some tissue to granulate before the repair was done. The last time I needed a repair I went right from the mohs surgeon to the plastic surgeon. You can never be too prepared and you never know what to expect. I hope that yours is of the insignificant kind. |
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Trinda3
4 Posts |
Posted - 03/01/2013 : 15:41:50
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quote:
Originally posted by accfan
Thanks for the helpful background info, John691. After reading your post and that of Trinda3, I'm probably overreacting. This is just the 4th BCC on my nose. So far, no flaps, etc., although my derm said she may send me to plastic surgery to close this one, so maybe the biopsy doesn't look so good. This is the 3rd BCC on my nose in one year (Feb-Jun-Feb). I'm curious if that sounds typical. My derm has not seemed concerned, but it does make me wonder about the long term. If this keeps up, I may have to look into that Erivedge. Thanks again.
quote:
Originally posted by john691
There is no simple answer to your question. I have used Effudex on my nose along with many other topical treatments. Numerous MOHS surgery, a forehead flap repair, and subsequent MOHS followed. If you think your BCC may be extensive, you might consider punch biopsies to determine the degree to which it has spread. Effudex, in my case, did not go deep enough and just helped to hide the real issue. A year ago, I went to the dermatologist for what I thought was a small spot but it was quite extensive. It is important to make sure that your treatment removes all of the BCC. If you decide on a topical treatment, a follow-up biopsy is a good idea. If you think that it is extensive and fear losing your nose, then consider Erivedge (vismodgeib), but this is not for the faint of heart. Good luck and let us know how it goes.
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Trinda3
4 Posts |
Posted - 03/01/2013 : 15:45:02
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| My derm only do the biospy I go straight to the plastic surgeon for the mohs. I tried to get out of the biopsy last time because I already knew it was cancer just not what kind. |
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dasnyder
5 Posts |
Posted - 03/06/2013 : 12:59:39
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Note to Jack Kemp3:
I, too, have a red-heads complexion and the Picata gel had no affect after three days of treatment. I would have thought the lighter the skin the more painful the treatment! My dermatologist has suggested the Levulan Kerastick treatment which calls for applying the Kerastick and then going under the Blu-U light. Is this the treatment that you had and were satisfied with?
Hope to hear from you.
DASNYDER |
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dasnyder
5 Posts |
Posted - 03/06/2013 : 13:07:46
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TO ACCFAN:
Thank you for responding to my question about 3 boxes of Picato Gel that cost my insurance co. over $1800. I finally did get to talk to my doctor and you are right - I had gel for 9 days. My doctor said that was a mistake and she only prescribed 1 box of 3 tubes. However, since it had no effect on me I am still wondering if 1 tube is enough to cover the entire face (which I did).
I am now considering the Levulan Blue Light treatment, but after my experience with Picato, I don't have a lot of hope.
Thank you again.
DASNYDER |
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Topic |
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Picato gel (from radium weed or petty spurge)
