My first course of treatment was Azacitadine & Venetoclax, but I found the injections very painful, & felt I couldn't live my best life. I find with cytarabin & venetoclax I can live a relatively normal life.
July 6
Yes! Acute myelomonocytic leukemia (AMML) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and there's quite a bit to share about it. Your treatment plan sounds very much in line with what's used for AMML.
Cytarabine works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, stopping them from repairing themselves. Venetoclax is a targeted Show Full Answer
Yes! Acute myelomonocytic leukemia (AMML) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and there's quite a bit to share about it. Your treatment plan sounds very much in line with what's used for AMML.
Cytarabine works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, stopping them from repairing themselves. Venetoclax is a targeted therapy that helps kill cancer cells more specifically, while mostly leaving healthy cells alone. AMML treatment typically happens in phases:
- Induction therapy — the first phase, aimed at wiping out as many cancer cells as possible
- Consolidation therapy — follows induction, targeting any remaining cancer cells to help prevent return
Your 5-week cycle with cytarabine and venetoclax fits within this treatment framework. Some people with AMML also receive a stem cell transplant as part of consolidation. A few important things to be aware of with your current treatment:
- Venetoclax carries a risk of tumor lysis syndrome — a rare but serious condition where cancer cells break down too quickly
- Both medications can increase the risk of serious infections and bleeding
- Self-administering cytarabine injections is manageable, but always follow your care team's guidance closely
It's always worth flagging any new or unusual symptoms to your doctor promptly. You're not navigating this alone! 💙
July 6
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