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Medication Management

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Taking medications on time and as prescribed is one of the most important parts of recovery after transplant. With multiple medications, changing schedules, and side effects, it can feel overwhelming—but there are tools and strategies that can help.

Why It Matters

  • Medications support engraftment, prevent infection, GVHD and manage side effects from transplant

  • Missing doses or incorrect timing can lead to complications or setbacks

  • Some medications are time-sensitive or interact with food, so routines matter

Common Side Effects

Patients may experience:

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Hair loss

  • Taste changes

  • Lightheadedness

  • Water retention

Encourage your care team to discuss side effects as well as rare complications

Common Myths

Myth: “You’ll be sick all the time”

Fact: While side effects like vomiting and fatigue are common, many patients still find ways to feel better and enjoy being outside the hospital.

What I Wish I Knew

  • Allergies can affect medication choices—share your full history

  • Some meds may be administered through your central line—ask what’s possible

  • PharmDs (clinical pharmacists) can coordinate across hospitals to find safe alternatives

  • It’s okay—and important—to advocate during rounds: ask about routes, forms, flavors, and timing

Questions to Ask

  • What medications can help with nausea or other side effects?

  • Can I consolidate pharmacies to simplify refills?

  • Are there flavoring options for liquid medications?

  • What forms are available—pills, liquids, gummies?

  • Can any medications be given through my central line?

  • Are there alternatives if I have allergies or trouble swallowing?

Helpful Tips

  • Use a calendar or weekly pillbox to stay organized

  • Try a hospital app to track doses and set reminders

  • Ask if liquid forms are available—some pills can be crushed or cut

  • Use creative strategies like mixing meds with pudding or applesauce to ease swallowing fatigue

  • Build a weekly template—meds often change day to day, so having a visual plan helps

Next Topic: Clinic Visits

Disclaimer: This Journey Map is for educational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every patient’s situation is unique, and care decisions should always be made in consultation with your clinical team.

We extend our appreciation to Sanofi and Alexion for their generous partnership and active participation in our community. Their support helped bring patients, caregivers, clinicians, and industry partners together to co-create this Journey Map and improve the transplant experience.

Our Journey Map was created for Patients and Caregivers by Patients and Caregivers. Please share any corrections or additions!