Part 2 in a New Series: “Addressing MPN Symptoms” by David Wallace This is no great “epiphany moment” article, just a quick report on a real myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) symptom I experience from time to time. Most mornings, I make a healthy smoothie to get me up and rolling. This morning I grabbed the wrong […]
Mast Cells and Histamine in MPN Related Itching Explained
2025 Update MPN patients suffering from intense itching have long relied on a combination of over-the-counter medications for relief, commonly known as the “Z and Z combo” – Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Zantac (ranitidine). However, in 2020, Zantac faced a widespread recall due to concerns over potential carcinogenic contaminants. This development left many MPN (PV, MF […]
Over the Counter Combo of Zyrtec and Zantac helping PV patients get relief from Itching!
Part 1 in a New Series: “Addressing MPN Symptoms” by David Wallace 2025 Update (Beta-Alanine has also been used successfully to beat itching) MPN patients experiencing severe itching have traditionally turned to a combination of over-the-counter remedies, often referred to as the “Z and Z combo,” which includes Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Zantac (ranitidine). In 2020, […]
PV For Newbies – A Patient’s Perspective
by Dave Stewart YOU’VE JUST BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH PV… …and now, most likely, you’re looking online for info…anything…to tell you what to expect, what’s next, how long you’re going to live… First things first – Don’t panic. Easier said than done, but learning how to control your stress and keep it at a healthy level […]
Strategies to Beat Itching in Polycythemia Vera
How Can I Beat the Itchies? contributed by Paul Jaeger I was suffering from itching (pruritis) almost 10 years before my Polycythemia Vera was diagnosed. It’s the worst symptom my disease/condition has brought so far, although the doctor promises death at some point in my future. I had to give her $150 to tell me […]