Strategies to Assist Patients Experiencing TKI-Related Treatment Intolerance

Effective management of adverse events in patients undergoing treatment requires a foundation of strong communication. Treating patients as partners in their care is emphasized, encouraging open, ongoing dialogue where patients feel empowered to report adverse effects as soon as they arise. Proactive education about what adverse events to expect and how to manage them plays a critical role in prevention. For example, patients might be advised to keep medications on hand to address common issues such as diarrhea, enabling them to handle symptoms promptly. This approach helps improve treatment adherence and overall patient comfort.

In addition to communication, practical strategies such as dose adjustments and routine monitoring are key to mitigating adverse effects. Not every patient needs to start at full dosage, and following treatment milestones with frequent follow-ups can help identify issues early on. Adjusting doses in response to tolerability, especially in older patients or those experiencing adverse effects, can maintain treatment effectiveness while improving quality of life. Collaborative care involving the whole health care team ensures that patients receive comprehensive support, with a focus on personalized care that respects individual needs and comorbidities.

Dose reduction and treatment de-escalation are gaining recognition as useful tools, particularly for patients who have achieved deep remission but still experience adverse effects. Gradually lowering the dose before discontinuing therapy allows clinicians to carefully monitor disease control and patient well-being. This strategy is especially relevant for those with adverse events or older patients, while younger, healthier patients may sometimes stop treatment more abruptly under close supervision. Overall, balancing efficacy with tolerability through thoughtful dose management and patient engagement remains a cornerstone of long-term treatment success.