Platelets are too low

[Seaperson]

My husband will be 86 in March and was diagnosed with CLL about 15 years ago. He was on IMBRUVICA daily about 4 years ago but the dose was gradually lowered and the drug was stopped about 2 and a half years ago because of side effects.

He was prescribed BRUKINSA 240 mg daily in September of 2023 but the dose was lowered almost immediately to only one 80 mg capsule daily. He has tolerated it well but today he was told today to hold the BRUKINSA for a month as his platelet count is only 32. His platelet count has been dropping since he started the BRUKINSA. Is there anything else they can do to raise his platelet numbers? Bruising is very common and he is having significant night sweats again. Energy is very low although we try to take a short walk every day.

Thanks

[AussieNeil Administrator]

During CLL treatment, platelet transfusions are given when the platelet count drops below 10, or below 20 if the patient has an infection. Transfused platelets unfortunately only have a half life of about 4 to 5 days, so frequent transfusions can be required while waiting for bone marrow recovery from CLL treatment reversing the impact of infiltration.

Neil

[Seaperson in reply to AussieNeil]

Thanks for your very prompt reply. We are both just recovered from Covid so the last six weeks have been hard on him. Looking forward to spring!

[MaxSmart]

Even if he doesn’t have an enough energy to walk, just getting outdoors with fresh air is helpful especially if you can get some sun.

Also, I have more caffeine now that I have low energy from CLL, that seems to help.

[Seaperson in reply to MaxSmart]

I agree about the caffeine. My husband drinks at least 3 diet cokes a day but I don’t think I am going to change his habit of 50 years. Happilynhis platelets were up to 43 this week.

[MaxSmart in reply to Seaperson]

Also simple stretching up to the ceiling and down to the floor is energizing and will get the blood moving. Also applying cold water to the hands and face is energizing.

[Seaperson in reply to MaxSmart]

Great suggestions. Thank you.

[MaxSmart in reply to Seaperson]

Also my doctor wrote me a prescription for thyroid T3. my thyroid is still in range, but this increased my energy level.