Is Venclexta given as an infusion for AML treatment? Actually, Venclexta (venetoclax) is taken as a once-daily pill, not an infusion. It works by targeting a protein called BCL-2, which normally helps leukemia cells survive. By blocking this protein, Venclexta makes it harder for leukemia cells to stay alive. Venclexta is Show Full Answer
Is Venclexta given as an infusion for AML treatment? Actually, Venclexta (venetoclax) is taken as a once-daily pill, not an infusion. It works by targeting a protein called BCL-2, which normally helps leukemia cells survive. By blocking this protein, Venclexta makes it harder for leukemia cells to stay alive. Venclexta is often used in combination with other treatments for AML, such as:
- Azacitidine (Onureg)
- Decitabine (Dacogen)
- Low-dose chemotherapy
It's worth knowing that Venclexta does come with some important side effects to watch for, including:
- Anemia
- Neutropenia
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
One serious risk is tumor lysis syndrome, where Venclexta destroys so many cancer cells at once that the byproducts can overwhelm the kidneys, potentially causing kidney failure.
Because of this risk, a doctor may recommend staying in the hospital when first starting Venclexta or when increasing the dose. Always discuss these risks carefully with the care team before starting treatment.
May 5
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