In a nutshell
This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of venetoclax (Venclexta) in combination with other treatments for elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The study found that this newer treatment may be effective in these patients.
Some background
Acute myeloid leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow that leads to abnormal immune cells. It is often treated with drugs that attack cancer cells such as decitabine (Dacogen) or azacitidine (Vidaza). These may be more effective in combination with venetoclax. It is important to research the safety and effectiveness of this treatment plan in elderly patients with AML.
Methods & findings
57 patients were divided into 3 different treatment groups. Group A had 23 patients and received venetoclax and decitabine. Group B had 22 patients and received venetoclax with azacitidine. Group C had 12 patients and received venetoclax, decitabine with posaconazole to check the metabolism of the drugs. Patients were followed up for 12-15 months.
Overall, 35 (61%) patients had a full response to treatment (no signs of cancer after treatment). In groups A and B, 27 of 45 patients (60%) had a full response to treatment.
Side effects of treatment included low platelet (part of blood involved in clotting) count (47%), fever (42%), low immune cell count (40%). These were more common in groups A and B. Lung infection (33%), nausea (58%) and vomiting (42%) were most common in group C.
The bottom line
The study concluded that venetoclax in combination with other treatments was safe and effective in the treatment of elderly patients with AML.
The fine print
This study was limited by a small sample size and a short follow-up period and requires larger studies to confirm results.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about using venetoclax with other treatments for AML.
Published By :
The Lancet. Oncology
Date :
Jan 12, 2018
