In a nutshell
This study compared the safety and effectiveness of blinatumomab (Blincyto) with chemotherapy in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Researchers found the survival was higher with blinatumomab than chemotherapy alone.
Some background
Patients with unresponsive or relapsed ALL treated with chemotherapy have poor outcomes. Blinatumomab is a medication used to treat some types of ALL. It is not known if it is safer or more effective than chemotherapy alone for these patients.
Methods & findings
405 patients were included in the effectiveness group. 271 were given blinatumomab and 134 received chemotherapy. 376 patients were included in the study for safety. 267 were given blinatumomab and 109 were given chemotherapy.
Overall survival in patients after first relapse or lack of response was 11.1 months for blinatumomab and 5.5 months for chemotherapy. In patients who relapsed or did not respond to more than 1 treatment, survival was 5.1 months for blinatumomab and 3 months for chemotherapy.
Side effects were seen in 98.1% of the blinatumomab group compared to 100% in the chemotherapy group. Serious side effects were seen in 57.3% of the blinatumomab group compared to 41.5% of the chemotherapy group. The most common side effects included low white blood cells, infections, and allergic reaction.
The bottom line
The study concluded that blinatumomab is safe and effective in the treatment of relapsed or unresponsive acute lymphocytic leukemia.
The fine print
This study was funded by Amgen, the manufacturer of blinatumomab.
Published By :
Leukemia & lymphoma
Date :
Apr 05, 2019
