Pacritinib for Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests pacritinib, a kinase inhibitor, to determine its safety and effectiveness for treating Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM), a rare blood cancer. The trial targets individuals with symptoms such as fatigue, night sweats, or swollen lymph nodes due to WM. Ideal candidates have WM, have undergone at least two previous treatments, and experience symptoms that disrupt daily life. Participants will take pacritinib twice daily and undergo regular check-ups, including bone marrow tests. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on evaluating the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to significant medical advancements.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot take certain drugs that affect liver enzymes within 14 days before starting the study drug. It's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that pacritinib is likely to be safe for humans?
Previous studies have shown that pacritinib is safe for humans. This medicine, a kinase inhibitor, blocks certain enzymes that help cancer grow.
Participants using pacritinib for various conditions have generally tolerated it well. However, some side effects have been reported. Common ones include diarrhea, nausea, and low blood cell counts. Serious side effects, though less common, might include bleeding or heart problems.
This trial is in Phase 2, indicating that pacritinib has already passed initial safety checks in earlier studies. This suggests it is reasonably safe for further testing, but more information is needed to fully understand its safety. Prospective participants should discuss potential risks with healthcare professionals before joining a trial.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for Waldenström's macroglobulinemia?
Most treatments for Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia, like rituximab and bendamustine, target the cancerous cells more generally. Pacritinib is unique because it specifically inhibits enzymes called Janus kinases (JAKs), which play a key role in the signaling pathways that drive the growth of these cancer cells. This targeted action could lead to more effective control of the disease with potentially fewer side effects. Researchers are excited about Pacritinib because it offers a novel approach that might enhance treatment effectiveness and improve the quality of life for patients with this condition.
What evidence suggests that pacritinib might be an effective treatment for Waldenström macroglobulinemia?
Research has shown that pacritinib, the investigational treatment in this trial, may help treat Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (WM). Studies have found that pacritinib blocks key signals that aid cancer cell survival, leading to increased cancer cell death, especially in those with the MYD88 mutation. Early results suggest that pacritinib effectively targets the mechanisms that allow these cancer cells to survive and grow. This makes it a promising option for people with WM, particularly those whose cancer has these mutations.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Shayna Sarosiek, MD
Principal Investigator
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM), a rare type of lymphoma, who have seen their disease return or not respond to treatment. Specific eligibility details are not provided, but typically participants must meet certain health standards and may be excluded based on other medical conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive pacritinib for up to 4 years, with regular assessments and bone marrow biopsies
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Pacritinib
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Shayna Sarosiek, MD
Lead Sponsor
Sobi, Inc.
Industry Sponsor