OncoPharm Venetoclax (with Dr. Kayleigh Marx)
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May 20, 2021 Dr. Kayleigh Marx, a clinical pharmacy specialist in leukemia at MD Anderson Cancer Center, shares her expertise on venetoclax, a pivotal drug in leukemia treatment. She discusses the drug's intriguing history and development, including its approval for chronic lymphocytic and acute myeloid leukemia. Dr. Marx delves into the pharmacological mechanisms behind venetoclax and its effectiveness, while addressing the significant toxicities and challenges in patient care. Insightful tips on individualized dosing and the role of pharmacists in optimizing treatment are also explored.
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Venetoclax's Rise
- Venetoclax's rapid rise to prominence is discussed.
- MD Anderson was heavily involved in its clinical trials, from early phases to widespread use.
BCL2's Role
- BCL2, an anti-apoptotic protein, is usually bound to pro-apoptotic proteins, preventing cell death.
- Stress signals release proteins that reverse this, allowing apoptosis.
Venetoclax's Mechanism
- Venetoclax is effective in hematologic malignancies because these cells overexpress BCL2, making them "primed for death".
- Combining venetoclax with other therapies like HMAs creates synergy, further promoting apoptosis.