The FDA has approved a new drug called Venclexta (venetoclax) for adults with certain types of blood cancer. Venclexta is a targeted therapy that works by blocking a protein called BCL-2, which helps cancer cells survive. By blocking this protein, the drug can help kill cancer cells.
Venclexta is approved for two main uses. First, it is for adults with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). Second, it is for adults aged 75 or older with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML), or for those who cannot have strong chemotherapy. For AML, Venclexta is used together with other drugs like azacitidine or decitabine.
This approval gives patients a new oral treatment option, which can be taken at home. However, Venclexta can cause a serious side effect called tumor lysis syndrome, where cancer cells break down too quickly. Doctors will monitor patients closely and may give fluids or other medicines to prevent this.
If you or a loved one has CLL, SLL, or AML, talk to your doctor about whether Venclexta might be right for you. This approval does not mean it is the best option for everyone. Your doctor can help weigh the benefits and risks based on your specific health situation.