Chemotherapy, the main treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), may cause unpleasant side effects. For this reason, some people with AML research natural treatments.
AML is one of the most aggressive forms of leukemia and the
In this article, we discuss the potential natural treatments for AML that people can try alongside chemotherapy. We also examine other nonchemotherapy treatment options and support for people with AML.
Complementary therapies are approaches people use in addition to medical treatments, while alternative medicine aims to replace medical treatment. Science does not support the use of alternative medicine to treat cancer.
Avoiding medical treatment may shorten a person’s life and prolong their suffering, especially if they avoid all medical treatment, including palliative care.
People who wish to stop trying life-prolonging treatments such as chemotherapy may elect to try alternative therapies.
However, they should consult a doctor about medications that may reduce pain, even if they wish to avoid chemotherapy. For example, a person might try acupuncture and avoid chemotherapy while still taking pain medication.
Complementary therapy is the safest natural treatment option since it complements rather than replaces proven treatments.
Chemotherapy is not the only treatment option for AML. Instead of chemotherapy, doctors may recommend one or more of the following:
- Targeted therapy drugs: Like chemotherapy, these medications can kill cancer cells. However, unlike chemotherapy, targeted therapy
specifically targets cancer cells instead of killing large numbers of healthy cells. IDH inhibitors and FLT3 inhibitors are examples of targeted therapy drugs. - Radiation: Like chemotherapy, radiation targets cancer cells but can also kill healthy cells. Doctors usually
recommend radiation therapy when AML spreads beyond the bone marrow or as a treatment before a stem cell transplant. - Stem cell transplant: A stem cell transplant uses bone marrow, usually from a healthy donor such as a family member, to
improve the health of the body and immune system. After a stem cell transplant, doctors may deliver higher doses of chemotherapy, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
People who think they may have AML, leukemia, or any other severe disease should see a doctor as soon as possible. It is impossible to diagnose AML based on symptoms alone. A person should also see a doctor if:
- they have severe chemotherapy reactions, such as the inability to keep down any food or water
- their AML or chemotherapy symptoms suddenly get worse
- they develop signs of an infection, such as a fever
- they want to stop chemotherapy or another treatment
- their symptoms change or get worse after trying a natural remedy
AML can be a devastating diagnosis. Many oncologists and the hospitals where they work offer local support groups. A person may also find it helpful to speak with a therapist who specializes in serious and terminal diagnoses.
People can use strategies to get adequate support, such as:
- discussing treatment goals with a doctor and asking about the risks and benefits of each treatment
- joining an online support group
- talking with friends and family about end-of-life goals, such as whether they would prefer to die at home or avoid painful treatments
- speaking with a lawyer about financial and estate issues so that they can die confident that their loved ones will have the financial resources they need
Living with AML can be difficult, especially if the outlook is poor or uncertain. While natural and complementary remedies may strengthen the body and reduce side effects, they are not an alternative to mainstream treatments.
People who wish to quit chemotherapy may find some relief from choosing natural remedies. However, they should be mindful that these remedies are not scientifically proven to treat cancer. A person has a right to choose the treatment that works for them but must know its effectiveness.
An oncologist can help with comparing treatment options and deciding when and whether to stop chemotherapy.