Well it's onto drug number three. I've been on Gleevec for about 1 year, then Tasigna for about 1 year. Starting Sprycell tomorrow. My response has been good but not great to the first two TKIs, getting my bcr/abl down about 2 logs but never approaching the 3 log reduction level. I liked Tasigna much more than Gleevec as I had more energy and milder side effects. But have to admit the fasting requirements were a real pain at times. Had my genetics tested and no mutations so that isn't the issue. Regular blood work is great.
So it's not real clear why I have not been able to get the three log reduction. My personal suspicion is either: 1. I'm a long distance runner and I run about 50 miles a week, could this been effecting my response? Stopping running is not really an experiment I want to conduct just yet. 2. I'm still being exposed to whatever caused my CML, hard to pin this down as I am not exposed to any chemical as part of my work. I fly a lot, could this radiation be the source? Or perhaps the Ohio river water is the problem?
These questions certainly don't keep me up at night but are something I think about once in a while. Overall I am very thankful for these drugs and I am hopeful the third is the charm. Looking for any one else who is, or was, in my situation and insights you might have.