Efficacy

Venclyxto/Venclexta (Venetoclax) Efficacy in Leukemia

Venclyxto, also known as Venclexta in the United States, is a targeted therapy drug containing the active substance venetoclax. It is primarily used in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a type of cancer that affects white blood cells and can lead to a weakened immune system. Venetoclax works by inhibiting the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) protein, which is overexpressed in some patients with CLL and contributes to the survival of leukemia cells. By blocking this protein, venetoclax helps to restore the process of apoptosis, allowing cancer cells to die off.

Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of venetoclax in patients with CLL, including those who have a 17p deletion, a genetic mutation associated with a poor prognosis. The drug has been shown to produce high rates of response in patients, including complete remissions. Venetoclax is often used in combination with other drugs, such as rituximab or obinutuzumab, which can enhance its effectiveness. The combination therapies have been found to lead to longer progression-free survival compared to traditional chemotherapy regimens.

Daurismo (Glasdegib) Efficacy in Leukemia

Daurismo, with the active ingredient glasdegib, is another medication used in the treatment of certain types of leukemia. It is approved for use in adult patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are aged 75 years or older or who have comorbidities that preclude the use of intensive induction chemotherapy. Glasdegib is a hedgehog pathway inhibitor that works by blocking the signals that are essential for the growth of cancer cells. By disrupting this pathway, glasdegib can slow down or stop the progression of leukemia.

The approval of Daurismo was based on the results of clinical trials that showed a survival benefit when glasdegib was used in combination with low-dose cytarabine (LDAC), a type of chemotherapy, compared to LDAC alone. Patients treated with the combination of glasdegib and LDAC had a significant improvement in median overall survival. This combination provides an alternative treatment option for patients with AML who are unable to tolerate more intensive chemotherapy regimens. It is important to note that glasdegib's efficacy in leukemia is specific to AML and its use is not indicated for other subtypes of leukemia.