When Mintzer couldn't take chemotherapy, anymore he tried a new medication as part of a study at Baptist Hospital. The pill is called Gleevec, and it seems to stop the production of leukemia cells. After three weeks on Gleevec, Mintzer's white blood cell count has dropped dramatically and he says he's feeling a lot better. The overwhelming fatigue that just drove me crazy is gone, it's like coming back to life. Doctors don't know yet if Gleevec can keep CML in remission but they are hopeful.
Studies are also underway in patients with advanced prostate cancer.
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