Venetoclax: A Magic Drug for Hematological Malignancies

Venetoclax is a highly selective B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2) inhibitor. It helps in overcoming the apoptotic potential of the cancer cells. BCL-2 is overexpressed in many hematological malignancies, and thus, with the introduction of venetoclax, there is a revolutionary change in the therapeutic approach to hematological malignancies like AML, CLL, multiple myeloma, and others. Based on data from MUANO and CLL 14 studies in CLL patients, VIALLE in AML patients, and Bellini in patients with multiple myeloma, venetoclax has been included in the standard treatment protocol of these malignancies in many centers worldwide. Even though the drug does not result in a cure of the disease and is associated with side effects, including tumor lysis syndrome, because of its increasing use in a wide spectrum of hematological disorders, venetoclax has been considered, as the magic drug. Emerging resistance has been a concern; different combination regimens are being tried in different trials to get maximum benefit from this wonder drug.