Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are ineligible for intensive chemotherapy have limited therapeutic options. Previous research suggests hypomethylating agents combined with venetoclax are effective for this group, but the hypomethylating agent must be given via parenteral administration or intravenous injection outside of the digestive tract.
In a Phase II study, researchers led by Farhad Ravandi, M.D., and Alexandre Bazinet, M.D., evaluated an oral combination of decitabine and cedazuridine (ASTX727) plus venetoclax in 62 patients with newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory AML who had a high risk of poor outcomes. Newly diagnosed patients and relapsed/refractory patients had overall response rates of 64% and 46%, respectively, with manageable side effects. The study suggests the oral combination is safe and active in older patients with AML who are ineligible for chemotherapy, providing a more convenient method of treatment to improve quality of life.