OncoPharm

We all know we aren't supposed to make cross-trial comparisons, but it happens anyway. So, let's compare FLARUA2 (osimertinb + chemo) and the newly FDA-approved MARIPOSA regimen (lazertinib + amivantamab) to see what we can (and can't) take away from such a dangerous cross-trial comparison.

A mixed bag of Phase III results for using olanzapine with moderately emegotenic chemotherapy (MEC). Inui, et al: https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.24.00278 Ostwal, et al: doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.26076

A new cellular therapy is approved for synovial sarcoma and the anticipated approval has occurred for the dual IDH1/IDH2 inhibitor, vorasidenib.

FDA appears to change its stance on evaluating perioperative (adjuvant followed by neoadjuvant) ICI study designs in NSCLC. Also, a simple blood test is approved to detect colorectal cancer, but there are several limitations compared to colonoscopy.

Did you know high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cel rescue was a "standard" breast cancer treatment ~30 years ago? This story involves changing practices based on Phase II data and outright clinical trial fraud, and retractions of publications. On-site review of Bezwoda study: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(00)90024-2 Oral History: https://cancerhistoryproject.com/institutions/nccns-bob-carlson-talks-about-the-day-he-stormed-out-of-a-meeting-with-transplanters/

Reflections from vacation on 1) How similar the chef training experience on The Bear mirrors some pharmacy residency training and 2) being a resource to family/friends with oncology questions.

Running through recent updates on epcoritamab, adagrasib + cetuximab for colorectal cancer, endometrial cancer, adjuvant dabrafenib/trametinib melanoma follow-up data, and topical capsaicin for delayed CINV. Also, a brief travelogue on my inaugural trip to ATOPP (advanced topics for oncology pharmacy professionals) Summit.

The MARIPOSA study suggests there may be a new preferred first line regimen (amivantamab + lazertinib) for metastatic EGFR-mutated NSCLC, as this regimen improved PFS compared to osimertinib.

An experimental regimen for DLBCL piques my interest. Venetoclax ibrutinib Prednisone Obinutuzumab Revlimid (lenalidomide) Link: https://www.nejm.org/doi/pdf/10.1056/NEJMoa2401532

A new drug is approved for MDS. While some will likely benefit from this new agent, the more enticing news is that inhibiting telomerase may be an attractive target for many malignancies.