Over 20 years ago, approaching 50, I was diagnosed with ET having lived with a platelet count around 1700....I was sent immediately to a hematology oncologist who suggested a then-new drug, Anagrelide (Agrylin was the brand). It worked, still works, it's not considered an antimetabolite like hydroxyurea. When I had to change physicians after 10 years, the new doctor put me through several months insisting I was on the wrong medication, including painful bone-marrow tests. I found another doctor, went back to Anagrelide...which has kept my platelets around 400, had no side effects to date. While medicine advances I do listen to my doctors as well as my body. If it works, why stop doing it? That works for me. Of course, I am not a doctor, enjoy natural cures and eastern medical practice as well as the mind/body connection. Stay hopeful and healthy.