What are Treatments for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?

The treatments for CML have evolved over the years and now include a range of options.

1. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is the foundation of CML treatment. These drugs target the cancer cells specifically, reducing damage to healthy cells. The primary drugs used in targeted therapy for CML are tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which block the action of the BCR-ABL protein, slowing the growth and division of the leukemia cells. The TKIs used include imatinib (Gleevec), dasatinib (Sprycel), nilotinib (Tasigna), bosutinib (Bosulif), and ponatinib (Iclusig).

2. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. For CML, chemotherapy might be used if targeted therapy is not effective. The chemotherapy drugs used for CML include hydroxyurea (Hydrea) and busulfan (Myleran).

3. Stem Cell Transplant

A stem cell transplant (SCT) might be an option if targeted therapy and chemotherapy are not effective. In SCT, the patient's diseased bone marrow is destroyed and then replaced with healthy stem cells from a donor. The new cells can make healthy blood cells and promote a functioning immune system.

4. Interferon Therapy

Interferon therapy uses a man-made version of a substance the body creates to fight infections. This treatment can slow the growth of the leukemia cells and promote the immune system's attack on these cells. Interferon-alpha is the type used for CML.

5. Supportive Treatments

Supportive treatments are used to manage the symptoms and side effects of CML and its treatments. These can include drugs to control pain, dietary changes to manage side effects, physical activity to boost mood and energy, and other therapies to improve quality of life.

6. Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are not just a last resort for treating CML. They can actually provide access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet approved but show promise over years of testing. The choice of a clinical trial depends on a variety of factors including the patient's age, overall health, the phase of CML, and genetic changes in the leukemia cells. It's important to discuss all treatment options, including goals and possible side effects, with your healthcare team to help make the best decision. 

To learn more about your CML clinical trial options, visit HealthTree's CML Clinical Trial Finder. Utilize the advanced filter option to locate trials that you are eligible to participate in. You can create a HealthTree account to favorite your top trial options so you can discuss them with your CML specialist.

Want to Learn More About Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?

Keep reading HealthTree for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia's 101 pages!

• What Is Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
• How Is Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Diagnosed?
• How Long Will I Live With Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
• What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
• How Is Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Staged And Classified?