[joesmith]

Hello fellow bloggers,

I am creating this new thread to gather information on what is the right duration for Vidaza AFTER the outcome has been successful after 6 to 8 monthly cycles. I understand it could take anywhere from a few months to several months before Vidaza starts working depending on the patient, the severity and type of MDS, etc. My post relates to the duration of Vidaza AFTER SUCCESSFUL outcome post 6 to 8 cycles. My question specifically is should Vidaza be continued indefinitely as long as it is working and the patient is tolerating it well OR should it be discontinued after 6 to 8 cycles?

I have heard/read that Vidaza and Dacogen are often continued until they stop controlling the MDS, side effects prevent their use, or stem cell transplantation, if appropriate. I have read of one case where someone who had almost 100% remission with Dacogen after 6 cycles of Dacogen has continued on monthly doses of Dacogen for over 5+ years continuously and still going strong. However I have not heard much on the duration of Vidaza for patients that have had successful outcomes after 6 to 8 cycles. Please share your insights/thoughts/research. Thank you.