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Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is also called acute myelogenous leukemia. It is a fast-growing cancer of the bone marrow and blood cells. Cells that should become white blood cells (WBCs) do not fully grow. These cells are called myeloblasts and monoblasts. They do not fight infection like a normal WBC should. They crowd the bone marrow and prevent normal blood cells from growing and fighting infection.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) for any of the following:

Seek care immediately if:

Call your doctor if:

Medicines:

Prevent infection:


Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

View more treatment options

Prevent bleeding and bruising:

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

You will need to see your oncologist for ongoing treatment. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Do not smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol:

Alcohol can thin your blood and make it easier to bleed. Smoking increases your risk for new or returning cancer. Smoking can also delay healing after treatment. Do not use e-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco in place of cigarettes or to help you quit. They still contain nicotine. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke or drink and need help quitting.

Prevent constipation:

High-fiber foods, extra liquids, and regular exercise can help you prevent constipation. Examples of high-fiber foods are fruit and bran. Prune juice and water are good liquids to drink. Regular exercise helps your digestive system work. You may also be told to take over-the-counter fiber and stool softener medicines. Take these items as directed.

Walking for Exercise

Eat healthy foods:

Eating healthy foods may help you feel better and have more energy. If you have trouble swallowing, you may be given foods that are soft or in liquid form. Ask your healthcare provider about any extra nutrition you may need, such as nutrition shakes or vitamins. Tell your healthcare provider if you have problems eating, or if you are getting nauseated.

Healthy Foods

Drink liquids:

For most people, healthy liquids to drink are water, juices, and milk. If you are used to drinking liquids that contain caffeine, such as coffee, these can also be counted in your daily liquid amount. Try to drink enough liquid each day, and not just when you feel thirsty. It may be helpful to drink liquids between your meals instead of with your meals. Men 19 years or older should drink about 3 liters of liquid each day (about 13 eight-ounce cups). Women 19 years or older should drink about 2 liters of liquid each day (about 9 eight-ounce cups). Follow your healthcare provider's advice if you must change the amount of liquids you drink.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Treatment options

Care guides

Symptoms and treatments

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.