The latest treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a targeted therapy known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). These drugs interfere with the activity of a protein called BCR-ABL, which is responsible for triggering the abnormal cell growth seen in CML. TKIs have been shown to be very effective in controlling CML and can help reduce the amount of leukemia cells in the body, leading to fewer symptoms and a better quality of life.
TKIs are typically taken orally in pill form and are usually taken once a day. They are usually taken for a period of 12-18 months, although some patients may need to take them for a longer period of time. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and muscle aches. In some cases, patients may experience a decrease in white blood cell count.
In addition to TKIs, chemotherapy and stem cell transplants may also be used to treat CML. Chemotherapy works by killing the cancer cells, while stem cell transplants involve replacing the unhealthy blood cells with healthy donor blood cells. Both of these treatments can be very effective, but they may also have some serious side effects, including infection, hair loss, and organ damage.
For most patients, TKIs are the preferred treatment for CML because they are more effective and have fewer side effects than other treatments. However, it is important to speak to your doctor about your individual needs to determine the best treatment plan for you.