Multiple Myeloma Treatment

For people with multiple myeloma, treatment options may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, bone marrow transplant, or a combination of things. During and after the process, it's important to eat right, even when side effects make it a challenge. Before starting treatment, you may wish to consider taking part in a clinical trial.

Multiple Myeloma Treatments

Treating Multiple Myeloma: An Overview

Multiple myeloma treatment options vary based on factors such as:

The stage of the disease (see Multiple Myeloma Stage)
The symptoms
The person's age and general health.

In general, options can include:

Radiation therapy (see Multiple Myeloma Radiation Treatment)
Chemotherapy (see Chemotherapy for Multiple Myeloma)
Other drug treatments
Stem cell transplant (see Stem Cell Transplant for Multiple Myeloma)
Bone marrow transplant
Biological therapy (see Multiple Myeloma Biologic Therapy).

Treatment with bisphosphonate drug therapy may be given to slow bone loss and reduce bone pain, and chemotherapy is the common treatment of amyloidosis. Patients may also receive supportive care to control the health problems (such as infections) that can be caused by multiple myeloma.

People with multiple myeloma who do not have symptoms may not need treatment. However, doctors will need to monitor such patients' health closely so that treatment can begin when symptoms appear. These people should work with their doctors to develop a plan that meets their medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate option is a decision that ideally involves the patient, the family, and the healthcare team.

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