MyMyelomaTeam

A stem cell transplant is a significant but well-established treatment for myeloma. Here's a general overview of what the process looks like:

Before the Transplant
- Your organs (heart, lungs, kidneys) will be checked to make sure you're ready
- You'll receive growth factor medications to move stem cells from your bone Show Full Answer

A stem cell transplant is a significant but well-established treatment for myeloma. Here's a general overview of what the process looks like:

Before the Transplant
- Your organs (heart, lungs, kidneys) will be checked to make sure you're ready
- You'll receive growth factor medications to move stem cells from your bone marrow into your blood
- Your stem cells are collected through an IV, a process that takes a few hours over one to several days, then frozen for later use

During the Transplant
- You'll receive high-dose chemotherapy (often melphalan) to wipe out myeloma cells and make room for healthy new cells
- Your stored stem cells are then thawed and infused back into your bloodstream — this takes around 30 minutes to 2 hours
- The cells naturally find their way back to your bone marrow and begin to grow Recovery — What to Expect

Most people stay in the hospital for 2–3 weeks after the transplant. The first 100 days are considered the most vulnerable period. Blood counts typically recover within 2–6 weeks, but full immune system recovery can take 6 months to a year.

Short-term side effects can include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Fatigue and weakness
- Mouth sores
- Fever or infection
- Loss of appetite

Don't try to tough it out — ask your care team for anti-nausea and anti-diarrhea medications. A MyMyelomaTeam member who went through the process shared that chewing ice during chemo and the infusion can really help prevent mouth sores.

Long-term side effects are less common but can include hormonal changes, cataracts, or organ changes. Your team will monitor you closely throughout. After the Transplant

You'll likely be on maintenance medications for several years to help sustain the treatment response. Your doctor will also monitor for minimal residual disease (MRD) — tiny amounts of myeloma cells that may remain after treatment.

The good news is that a stem cell transplant can lead to longer remission and improved progression-free survival. Many people with myeloma are living longer than ever thanks to modern treatments. Always discuss your specific situation with your transplant team — they're your best guide through this process.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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