Information for the public
Arsenic trioxide (Trisenox) is available through the NHS as a possible treatment for promyelocytic leukaemia in adults:
- If they have untreated, low-to-intermediate risk disease, arsenic trioxide should be given with all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA).
- If they have relapsed or refractory disease, arsenic trioxide should be used after both a retinoid and chemotherapy.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Leukaemia Care, 08088 010 444
- Leukaemia Cancer Society, 0208 374 4821
- Bloodwise (previously Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research), 0808 2080 888
- Cancer Research UK, 0808 800 4040
- Macmillan Cancer Support, 0808 808 0000
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-2963-4
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