Imatinib or Dasatinib for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests two treatments, imatinib mesylate and dasatinib, to evaluate their effectiveness for individuals with newly diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Researchers aim to determine if these drugs can halt cancer cell growth by blocking essential enzymes. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either imatinib once or twice daily, or dasatinib twice daily, with treatment lasting up to five years. Individuals diagnosed with CML within the last six months who have not received treatments other than hydroxyurea or anagrelide may be suitable for this trial. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on assessing the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it does mention that you must not have received prior treatment for CML, except for hydroxyurea and/or anagrelide. It's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that both imatinib mesylate and dasatinib are generally well-tolerated treatments for chronic myeloid leukemia. Imatinib has achieved a high survival rate in real-world settings, with 95% of patients surviving at least three years and 93% not experiencing disease progression. These outcomes suggest it is a safe and effective option.
Dasatinib also maintains a strong safety record. Studies have demonstrated its quick action and safety for up to five years. However, about 20% of patients experienced side effects that required stopping the treatment. Despite this, dasatinib has been effective for many, with 82% of patients surviving at least four years.
Both treatments have been used successfully, but like any medication, they can have side effects. Discussing these with the trial team is important to understand their implications.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) because they offer targeted approaches with specific benefits. Unlike the standard of care, which often revolves around tyrosine kinase inhibitors like imatinib, dasatinib presents a unique mechanism by targeting additional pathways, potentially overcoming resistance in some patients. Imatinib mesylate is explored in different dosing schedules—either once or twice daily—which might optimize its effectiveness and minimize side effects for individuals. These variations aim to provide more personalized treatment options, possibly leading to better outcomes for CML patients.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for chronic myeloid leukemia?
This trial will compare the effectiveness of Imatinib Mesylate and Dasatinib in treating chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Research has shown that Imatinib Mesylate, which participants in this trial may receive, is highly effective for CML. Studies found that 97.8% of patients who responded well to this treatment were still alive after 10 years, with up to 95% living at least three years after starting the therapy.
Dasatinib, another treatment option in this trial, has shown promising results. About 77% of patients reached an important treatment goal within a year, and in the long term, 82% were still alive four years after starting dasatinib. Both treatments block certain enzymes that help cancer cells grow, making them strong options for managing CML.35678Who Is on the Research Team?
Brian J Druker
Principal Investigator
SWOG Cancer Research Network
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with newly diagnosed chronic phase chronic myelogenous leukemia who haven't had treatment except possibly hydroxyurea or anagrelide. They should be in good physical condition, not pregnant or breastfeeding, and willing to use birth control. Major surgery must not have been done recently, and they shouldn't have serious bleeding disorders or certain heart conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive imatinib mesylate or dasatinib. Treatment repeats every 4 weeks for up to 5 years in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment completion
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Dasatinib
- Imatinib Mesylate
Dasatinib is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
- Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
- Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Lead Sponsor