7 Little-Known Side Effects of CML Treatment – & How to Handle Them

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) treatment has come a long way, with targeted therapies like tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) helping many patients live full, healthy lives. But while these medications are lifesaving, they often come with unexpected side effects that doctors don’t always prepare patients for. From crippling fatigue to brain fog, joint pain, and digestive issues, CML treatment can affect your body in ways that go beyond the usual side effects listed on prescription labels. But the good news? There are ways to manage and reduce these symptoms to continue living a high-quality life. RELATED: What Are the 3 Phases of CML – And What Should You Expect? 1. Fatigue That Feels Overwhelming – and How to Fight It One of the most common but least talked-about side effects of CML treatment is extreme fatigue. This isn’t just regular tiredness—it’s a deep, bone-weary exhaustion that doesn’t always improve with sleep. Why It Happens: TKIs interfere with energy production at a cellular level. Anemia (low red blood cell count) can reduce oxygen flow to your muscles and brain. Chronic inflammation and medication buildup can leave you feeling sluggish. How to Manage It: Move, Even When You Don’t Feel Like It –...