Treatments

Treatments for Multiple Myeloma

Treatment for multiple myeloma will be determined based on your age, health, medical history, the type and extent of your disease and your tolerance for each therapy.

Treatment may include:

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a combination of drugs is administered, either intravenously or orally, to treat cancerous cells that are growing out of control in the bone marrow or lymph system
• Radiation Therapy: In conjunction with chemotherapy, your doctor might use radiation therapy (high-energy rays) to kill or shrink cancer cells in the blood or lymph system
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy, also known as targeted antibody therapy, uses lab-created antibodies to fight cancer cells and slow tumor growth
• Transplant: Specialists in oncology and hematology (blood) may use bone marrow or peripheral stem cell transplants for leukemia, lymphoma or multiple myeloma
• Medications: Your physician may also prescribe drugs to control pain and prevent fractures

Palliative medicine

Side effects from cancer treatment can impact your quality of life and your body’s ability to respond to treatment. Northwestern Medicine is home to a diverse team of palliative medicine specialists who work with your oncologist to help relieve your pain and manage your symptoms. 

The palliative medicine specialists offer comprehensive care, including:

• Treatment of pain and other physical symptoms of cancer, such as fatigue, nausea, trouble sleeping, poor appetite, breathing difficulties and weight loss
• Treatment of emotional symptoms, such as depression and anxiety
• Improving your body’s ability to tolerate cancer treatments
• Helping you better understand tests, procedures and options
• Guiding you and those who care for you to helpful outside resources

From your initial diagnosis throughout your care, our palliative medicine team can help you remain stronger in your fight against cancer and feel better, every step of the way.