Blinatumomab for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests blinatumomab, a drug administered as injections under the skin, to determine its effectiveness in controlling minimal residual disease (MRD) and preventing the return of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Participants will receive treatment in 35-day cycles, with injections in areas such as the arm or thigh. The trial seeks adults with B-cell ALL who are in remission but still have MRD. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team to get a clear answer.
Is there any evidence suggesting that blinatumomab is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that blinatumomab, administered as an injection under the skin, is generally safe. In one study, participants tolerated the treatment well. Common side effects were manageable and included reactions at the injection site and flu-like symptoms, such as fever and headache. Serious side effects occurred rarely. The FDA has already approved blinatumomab for other uses, indicating it has passed important safety checks for those conditions. This background provides some reassurance about its safety for this new trial.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatments for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, which often involve chemotherapy or stem cell transplants, blinatumomab is a unique experimental drug administered as injections under the skin. What sets blinatumomab apart is its mechanism of action as a bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE), which means it helps the immune system's T-cells directly target and destroy cancer cells. Researchers are excited because this targeted approach can potentially result in fewer side effects and improved effectiveness compared to traditional therapies. Additionally, the subcutaneous delivery method of blinatumomab offers a more convenient and potentially less invasive treatment option for patients.
What evidence suggests that blinatumomab might be an effective treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia?
Research shows that blinatumomab effectively treats B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). In this trial, participants will receive blinatumomab as a subcutaneous injection. Studies have found that this method of administration in adults with relapsed leukemia led to promising results. Specifically, patients lived longer during a treatment phase aimed at strengthening remission. Early findings from other studies also suggest that this method maintains the drug's effectiveness and could be a viable option for patients. Overall, blinatumomab is considered a strong option for managing this type of leukemia.34567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Elias Jabbour, MD
Principal Investigator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults (≥18 years) with B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia who have measurable residual disease while in remission. Participants must understand the study, sign consent, have good organ function, and use contraception. Excluded are pregnant women, those allergic to Blinatumomab or its components, recently on other trials, with psychiatric issues affecting compliance, active infections/diseases including CNS involvement or history of such conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive subcutaneous blinatumomab in 35-day (5-week) treatment cycles
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Blinatumomab
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
Amgen
Industry Sponsor
Robert A. Bradway
Amgen
Chief Executive Officer since 2012
MBA from Harvard Business School
Paul Burton
Amgen
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD from University of London, PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology from Imperial College London