Targeted Drug Combination Induces Remission in CLL Patients, Improving Survival and Quality of Life

• A phase III clinical trial, FLAIR, demonstrated that a combination of venetoclax and ibrutinib is more effective than chemotherapy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
• The targeted drug combination significantly increased the time patients lived without cancer progression and improved overall survival, with over 95% in remission after three years.
• The treatment was well-tolerated, resulting in fewer side effects and a better quality of life, especially for older patients who may not tolerate chemotherapy.
• One patient, William Bennett, remains cancer-free nearly six years after starting the trial, highlighting the potential for long-term remission with this approach.

A 69-year-old patient from Stockport is showing no signs of cancer nearly six years after participating in the FLAIR clinical trial at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust. The trial investigated the effectiveness of newer targeted drugs compared to traditional chemotherapy for treating previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The results indicate a significant improvement in patient outcomes with the targeted therapy approach.

The FLAIR trial, a phase III randomized controlled study, revealed that a combination of venetoclax and ibrutinib, two targeted drugs, significantly improved outcomes for CLL patients. These drugs work by blocking chemical signals that promote cancer growth. The study, led by investigators at the University of Leeds, involved approximately 1500 participants across more than 100 hospitals in the UK.

Improved Outcomes and Tolerability

The trial demonstrated that the venetoclax and ibrutinib combination increased the time patients lived without cancer progression and improved overall survival. More than 19 out of 20 patients were in remission three years after starting treatment. According to Professor Adrian Bloor, consultant haematologist at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and principal investigator of the FLAIR trial, this personalized treatment approach effectively attacks the cancer while minimizing side effects, which is particularly beneficial for older and frailer patients.

William's Story: A Testament to Treatment Success

William Bennett, diagnosed with CLL 12 years ago, participated in the FLAIR trial starting in January 2019. Within three months of starting the treatment, his lymphocyte count returned to normal levels. He received the medication as daily tablets at home and, after initial monitoring, only required check-ups every three months. Nearly three years after completing the trial, William shows no evidence of the disease and requires no further treatment.

Expert Perspectives

Dr Talha Munir, Consultant in Clinical Haematology at the University of Leeds and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, emphasized that the FLAIR trial's results highlight the advancements in cancer research, focusing not only on saving lives but also on preserving the quality of life for patients. Dr Iain Foulkes, Executive Director of Research and Innovation at Cancer Research UK, noted that the trial demonstrates the effectiveness of tailored cancer treatment, offering patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia kinder treatment options and more time with their families.

The FLAIR trial was funded by Cancer Research UK, Janssen Research & Development, LLC, and AbbVie Pharmaceutical Research and Development.