A Strong Support System
If you are living with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), it is helpful to have
the information you need and people in your life who support you. This information
may include:
In addition to the healthcare professionals, your support network may include:
- Other CLL patients
- Caregiver support
- Family and friends
- Support groups
- Helpful links
If you are a caregiver, you are a big part of the support network. Click here for
information that may be helpful to you.
Other CLL Patients
Even though your family and friends help, you may also want to meet people who have
cancer now or have had it in the past. Connecting with other patients can remind
you that you are not alone and give you hope and encouragement. You can also get
helpful information about what to expect and how to handle having cancer.
You can meet other people with cancer:
- In the hospital
- At your healthcare professional’s office
- On online message boards
- In support groups
For more information about getting this kind of support, visit:
The National Cancer Institute
Caregivers need support, too
From preparing meals and grocery lists, to shopping, babysitting, bathing, and
providing emotional support, caregiving can often feel like a full-time job. That’s
why it is important to take time to care for yourself and keep your stress level
as low as you can.
For more tips and tools on coping and taking it all in stride, visit:
The National Cancer Institute
The American Cancer Society
Family and friends can do a lot
Family and friends can give support in many ways. They can keep a person company,
give a much-needed hug, and help with rides, meals, errands, or chores. If you are
not sure what to do, you could always ask what would help most.
Share in the love
Cancer support groups allow you and your loved ones to talk with others facing the
same problems. Support groups often have lectures as well as open discussions. Subjects
may include: what it’s like to have cancer, what’s new in cancer treatment, how
to cope with cancer, and how to keep a good attitude. Support groups are often offered
by hospitals, cancer centers, community groups, and schools. Talk to your healthcare
professional about support groups in your area.
> Next page: Helpful Links
Indications
TREANDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
(CLL). Efficacy relative to first-line therapies other than chlorambucil has not
been established.
TREANDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin’s
lymphoma (NHL) that has progressed during or within 6 months of treatment with rituximab
or a rituximab-containing regimen.
Important Safety Information
- The most common non-blood-related side effects (occurring in ≥15% of patients) with TREANDA are pyrexia (fever), nausea, and vomiting
- The most common blood-related side effects (occurring in ≥15% of patients) with TREANDA are reduction of red blood cells, reduction of blood platelets, reduction of neutrophils (white blood cells), reduction of lymphoid cells in the blood, and low counts of leukocytes (white blood cells)
- Allergic Reactions: There is a possibility of mild or serious allergic reactions with TREANDA. Immediately report rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing during or soon after infusion because these symptoms may become severe or even life-threatening
- Myelosuppression: TREANDA may cause a decrease in white blood cells, platelets, and red blood cells. You will need frequent monitoring of your blood cells. Report shortness of breath, significant fatigue, bleeding, fever, or other signs of infection because these symptoms may become severe or even life-threatening
- Pregnancy and Nursing: TREANDA can cause fetal harm. Women should avoid becoming pregnant throughout treatment and for 3 months after TREANDA therapy has stopped. Men receiving TREANDA should use reliable contraception for the same time period. Report pregnancy immediately. Avoid nursing while receiving TREANDA
- Fatigue: TREANDA may cause tiredness. Avoid driving any vehicle or operating any dangerous tools or machinery if you experience this side effect
- Nausea and Vomiting: TREANDA may cause nausea and/or vomiting. You should report nausea and vomiting to your doctor so that you can get treatment for these symptoms
- Diarrhea: TREANDA may cause diarrhea. You should report diarrhea to your doctor so that it can be treated
- Rash: A mild rash or itching may occur during treatment with TREANDA. Immediately report severe or worsening rash or itching to your doctor
- Some side effects may lead to the dose of TREANDA being lowered, stopped, or delayed
- You should not take TREANDA if you have a known allergy to bendamustine or mannitol