Optimizing outcomes in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase: comparative safety profiles of newer agents

Abstract

Imatinib is broadly used in the frontline treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Although long-term safety and efficacy have been established, some patients will not respond to imatinib. Nilotinib and dasatinib successfully recapture responses for most patients with imatinib-refractory or -intolerant disease. These drugs have different safety profiles, which are likely associated with their divergent inhibitory targets. The presence of Bcr–Abl mutations and safety profiles of available therapies in relation to patient history should be considered when choosing a second-line agent. This review evaluates the safety and tolerability of agents approved for CML treatment and briefly discusses newer third-line agents.

Keywords:

• Imatinib
• dasatinib
• nilotinib
• tyrosine kinase inhibitor
• chronic myeloid leukemia

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Stacey Rose, PhD and Erinn Goldman, PhD (Articulate Science) for medical editorial assistance with this manuscript.

Declaration of interest: Financial support for medical editorial assistance was provided by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.

Francis Giles receives research funding from Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Kevin Kelly, Devalingam Mahalingam, Ronan Swords report no conflicts of interest.