SUMMARY
Venetoclax, the first-in-class bcl-2 antagonist, has demonstrated deep and durable remissions as a single agent in relapse/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients with a 17p deletion or chronic lymphocytic leukaemia refractory to B-cell receptor inhibitors or progressive after B-cell receptor inhibitor discontinuation. As reimbursement of venetoclax by the Belgian national public health insurance has been provided, this review describes mechanism of action, dosage and administration, efficacy and tolerability. As venetoclax can rapidly reduce the chronic lymphocytic leukaemia load, precautions to avoid tumour lysis syndrome depending on risk assessment is a sine qua non. Despite the convenience afforded by this oral, once daily formulation, treating physicians and patients must be aware of drug adherence and drug-drug interactions which can challenge treatment benefits and risks.
(BELG J HEMATOL 2017;8(7):265–71)
