Olaparib for Acute Myeloid Leukemia with IDH Mutation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests how well the drug olaparib (also known as Lynparza) works for people with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) that either returned after treatment or didn't respond to it. The focus is on patients with a specific change in their IDH gene, which can affect cancer cell growth. Olaparib may help stop cancer cells from growing by blocking certain enzymes they need. People with AML or MDS with an IDH mutation, whose disease has returned or not responded to initial treatments, might be a good fit for this trial. As a Phase 2 trial, the research measures how well the treatment works in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires a washout period (time without taking certain medications) for strong or moderate CYP3A inducers and inhibitors before starting olaparib. If you are taking these types of medications, you may need to stop them for a few weeks before joining the trial. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that olaparib is likely to be safe for humans?
Research shows that the FDA has already approved olaparib for treating certain types of cancer, indicating a certain level of safety. In studies involving patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), olaparib has generally been well-tolerated. Some patients have experienced side effects, which can vary in severity. Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, and low blood cell counts. These side effects are often manageable and may not occur in everyone. This information provides an overview of olaparib's safety, but individual experiences can differ. It is important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatments for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which typically include chemotherapy or stem cell transplants, olaparib offers a novel approach by specifically targeting cancer cells with IDH mutations. Olaparib is a PARP inhibitor, which means it works by blocking a protein that cancer cells need to repair themselves, leading to their death. This targeted mechanism is particularly exciting because it has the potential to be more effective and less toxic than traditional treatments, offering new hope for patients with this specific genetic mutation.
What evidence suggests that olaparib might be an effective treatment for acute myeloid leukemia with an IDH mutation?
Studies have shown that olaparib, the treatment tested in this trial, can effectively treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with an IDH mutation. Research indicates that AML cells with IDH1 or IDH2 mutations respond better to olaparib, a type of drug called a PARP inhibitor. Olaparib damages the cancer cells' DNA, preventing their growth. One study found that olaparib led to a 40% overall response rate in patients with similar conditions, a significant improvement over past results. These findings suggest that olaparib could be promising for treating AML patients with IDH mutations.13567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Rory M. Shallis
Principal Investigator
Yale University Cancer Center LAO
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults diagnosed with relapsed or refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) or Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) with an IDH mutation, who have tried first-line therapy without success. Participants must be in stable health otherwise, not pregnant, and willing to use contraception. Those with uncontrolled infections, other active cancers needing treatment, or known hypersensitivity to olaparib are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive olaparib orally twice daily on days 1-28. Cycles repeat every 28 days in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment completion, with follow-up at 90 days and then every 3 months until death.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Olaparib
Olaparib is already approved in European Union, United States for the following indications:
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Fallopian tube cancer
- Peritoneal cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer
- Breast cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Lead Sponsor