Hello mfeley. I am a 74 year old woman who was diagnosed with ET, CALR + but JAK2- in 2024 but refused taking HU. My husband was so worried I would get blood clots and have a stroke. So I tried taking HU for 6 months in 2025, but lost 2 teeth, terrible hair loss, and had constant joint aches. I lost 25 lbs 9 years ago and have kept it off due to eating an anti-inflammatory diet and working out with spin and strength training classes (I'm the OLDEST in all my classes!!). I have no other conditions and take no other pharmaceuticals. I decided to stop taking the HU and consult with a Functional Medicine therapist and get regular chiropractic and acupuncture treatments. Other than high platelets, my blood work is all normal. I now take 81 mg aspirin 2x a day and supplements to address the high platelets. I am still losing hair, but I know it will take 6 months to get the drug out of my system. But I no longer have the joint and teeth aches and look forward to my thick hair returning. I will have regular blood work to check my platelet count, continue my lifestyle changes and take my supplements, but will NOT return to taking HU because the "minor" side affects are not acceptable. I know many people on this website say they have no side affects, but I hope those who do will speak up to support those of us who did.