In a nutshell
This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of rituximab (Rituxan) and idelalisib (Zydelig) in the treatment of relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The study found that idelalisib is safe and effective in these patients.
Some background
CLL is a cancer of the immune system. It is often treated with drugs that target the abnormal blood cells. Idelalisib and rituximab are examples of these drugs. On the short term, the combination of these drugs has shown promising effectiveness. The long-term safety and effectiveness of idelalisib and rituximab remain under investigation.
Methods & findings
220 patients were included in this study. Group 1 of 110 patients received rituximab and idelalisib. Group 2 of the other 110 received rituximab and placebo. Response rates and survival were measured.
The overall response rate in group 1 was 85.5% (94/110 patients). Patients survived for an average of 20.3 months without disease worsening. Overall survival was 40.6 months in group 1 and 34.6 months in group 2.
The most common side effects of idelalisib treatment included colitis (10.9%; inflamed bowel lining) and diarrhea (46.4%).
The bottom line
The study concluded that idelalisib improved survival compared to rituximab alone in patients with relapsed CLL.
The fine print
This study received funding from Gilead Sciences, the manufacturer of idelalisib.
Published By :
Journal of clinical oncology
Date :
Apr 17, 2019
