Blood tests can help your doctor see if you’re moving in the right direction
To see if you are responding to treatment with SCEMBLIX, your doctor will have you go for regular blood tests. Your blood counts should be checked every 2 weeks for the first 3 months and monthly after that.
Monitoring is a key part of treatment
When you have Philadelphia chromosome–positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) in chronic phase (CP), monitoring your blood is key. Your doctor will order tests to see if SCEMBLIX is working and to check for side effects.
Discuss your results with your doctor
It’s important to go for any blood tests your doctor prescribes. But you have to go a step further and make sure you discuss the results of your blood work with your doctor. This will help you understand what your results mean.
Test your doctor may prescribe
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Keep track of your results
You may find it helpful to keep track of the trend in your BCR-ABL1 level. You and your doctor will want to see this level decrease or stay stable over time. If your BCR-ABL1 level starts to increase, your doctor may adjust your dose or consider another treatment option. |
Other tests your doctor may require
During your treatment with SCEMBLIX, your doctor will conduct tests to check for side effects. Your doctor will periodically monitor your blood pressure. Your doctor will also check your blood cell counts (white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets), and test for pancreatitis. Your doctor may also order a pregnancy test before you start treatment with SCEMBLIX.
Why it’s important to ask about your results
Your blood work is a key measure of how you are responding to treatment. So don’t be shy. Be sure to discuss your results with your doctor, so you know what your numbers mean. If you don’t understand a term your doctor uses, ask your doctor to explain it. |