What are the effects of current chemotherapy drugs used for AL amyloidosis?
Chemotherapy drugs are commonly used to treat AL amyloidosis by targeting the abnormal plasma cells that produce harmful light-chain proteins. These medications can slow disease progression and help some people achieve remission, though they cannot Show Full Answer
What are the effects of current chemotherapy drugs used for AL amyloidosis?
Chemotherapy drugs are commonly used to treat AL amyloidosis by targeting the abnormal plasma cells that produce harmful light-chain proteins. These medications can slow disease progression and help some people achieve remission, though they cannot remove amyloid deposits already present in the body.
The main chemotherapy drugs used include:
* Melphalan (Alkeran or Evomela) - often combined with dexamethasone or used with stem cell transplantation
* Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
* Lenalidomide (Revlimid)
* Pomalidomide (Pomalyst)
* Bendamustine
Common side effects of these chemotherapy drugs include:
* Fatigue
* Constipation or diarrhea
* Nausea and vomiting
* Mouth sores
* Loss of appetite
* Increased risk of leukemia (particularly with melphalan)
Studies show promising results - about 1 in 3 people taking melphalan with dexamethasone achieved complete remission. Some people have experienced remission lasting more than a decade with certain treatments.
These drugs are often used in combination with steroids like dexamethasone to enhance their effectiveness. If AL amyloidosis is treated effectively within the first six months after diagnosis, the outlook is generally positive.
January 23
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