Pomalidomide for Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests pomalidomide, a drug that might help the immune system combat Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, a type of blood cancer. The study aims to determine the optimal dose and understand any side effects, specifically for patients whose condition has relapsed or is refractory to previous therapies. Ideal candidates for this trial are those with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia not improving with current treatment. Participants will take pomalidomide in cycles and must adhere to a specific visit schedule and take aspirin daily. As a Phase 1 trial, this research seeks to understand how pomalidomide works in people, offering participants the chance to be among the first to receive this treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that all previous cancer treatments, including radiation, hormonal therapy, and surgery, must be stopped at least 4 weeks before starting the study. However, it does not specify about other medications, so it's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that pomalidomide is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that pomalidomide has been tested for safety in various situations. In past studies, patients generally tolerated pomalidomide well. Common side effects include tiredness, low blood cell counts, and constipation, which can be managed with proper care.
Pomalidomide is already approved for treating multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. This approval indicates a certain level of safety for its use in people, although different conditions may respond differently.
While more information is needed to fully understand its safety for Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, early studies suggest it can be used safely with careful monitoring. As this trial is in its early stages, it aims to find the best dose and closely monitor any side effects.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Pomalidomide is unique because it offers a fresh approach to treating Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia by modulating the immune system. Unlike the standard treatments, such as chemotherapy or monoclonal antibodies, pomalidomide works by enhancing immune responses and directly affecting the tumor environment. Researchers are excited about its potential to improve outcomes with potentially fewer side effects, offering a new hope for patients with this rare type of cancer.
What evidence suggests that pomalidomide might be an effective treatment for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia?
Research has shown that pomalidomide, the treatment under study in this trial, might benefit patients with relapsed or hard-to-treat Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM). Early results suggest it can enhance the immune system and inhibit cancer cell growth. In studies, pomalidomide has controlled the disease in patients unresponsive to other treatments. Some patients experienced a decrease in cancer symptoms, indicating that pomalidomide could be a helpful option. While more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness, these early findings offer promise for those with challenging cases of WM.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sheeba Thomas, MD
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia that has come back or isn't responding to treatment. They must be fairly active (ECOG <=2), have normal liver function, and not have had cancer treatments in the last 4 weeks. People can't join if they're allergic to similar drugs, pregnant, breastfeeding, HIV positive, or have certain other health issues.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Patients receive pomalidomide orally on days 1-28 or 1-21. Courses repeat every 21 or 28 days in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Pomalidomide
Pomalidomide is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada, Japan for the following indications:
- Multiple myeloma
- Kaposi's sarcoma
- Multiple myeloma
- Kaposi's sarcoma
- Multiple myeloma
- Kaposi's sarcoma
- Multiple myeloma
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator