Hi. Yes, there are other potential medications than Vidaz used to treat MDS. Though Azacitidine (Vidaza) and Decitabine (Dacogen) appear to be the frontline treatment plans, from conversations with members in the forum.
Lenalidomide (Revlimid) is used for patients with specific genetic abnormalities in MDS.
Medications such as Epoetin Alfa are used to stimulate red blood production. But they don’t destroy cancer cells.
There are blood and platelet transfusions and growth factors to manage symptoms.
In some cases, traditional chemotherapy may be used for more aggressive forms of MDS.
And at this time the only potential cure for MDS is a Stem cell transplant.
However, your hematologist oncologist will determine the best option for the type/subtype of MDS associated with your diagnosis.
Any medication can have side effects. Every person is different and not everyone experiences side effects. The goal is to control the proliferation of disease.
How long ago were you diagnosed? Do you know if there are any specific mutations associated with your MDS?