What Is Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib)?
Rezlidhia (brand name: Olutasidenib) is in the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) drug group. It is used to treat a type of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with a specific genetic mutation (IDH1). Rezlidhia works by blocking the activity of an abnormal protein produced by the IDH1 mutation, which drives the growth of cancer cells in AML. By inhibiting this protein, olutasidenib may help slow down cancer progression and improve outcomes for patients with AML and an IDH1 mutation [citation; citation; citation]
Figure 1: Chemical Structure Depiction of Olutasidenib, Source
For What Is Used Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib)?
Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib) is used for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with a specific genetic mutation (IDH1) detected by the FDA-approved test. It is usually given with other AML treatments and is typically used after other standard treatments have failed [citation].
Who Developed Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib)?
Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib) was developed by a biotechnology company Rigell Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: RIGL) from the U.S., founded in 1996.
What Is the Mechanism of Action for Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib)?
Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib) works as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). More precisely it works by blocking the activity of a specific abnormal protein called isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1), produced by a genetic mutation present in some cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) [citation]. IDH1 drives the growth of cancer cells in AML by disrupting normal cellular metabolism, and blocking its activity with olutasidenib may help slow cancer progression. Olutasidenib inhibits mutated IDH1 R132H, R132L, R132S, R132G, and R132C proteins, but not wild-type IDH1 or mutated IDH2 proteins [citation].
Olutasidenib is usually given with other AML treatments and is typically used after other standard treatments have failed [citation].
What Are the Key Advantages of Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib)?
Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib) has several critical advantages for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with a specific genetic mutation (IDH1). Some of these advantages include:
Targeted therapy: Olutasidenib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that specifically targets the abnormal protein produced by the IDH1 mutation, which drives the growth of cancer cells in AML.
Improved outcomes: Clinical trials have shown that olutasidenib can improve outcomes for patients with AML and an IDH1 mutation, including more prolonged periods of remission and improved overall survival.
Well-tolerated: Olutasidenib has been well-tolerated in clinical trials, with a favorable safety profile and manageable side effects.
Flexible administration: Olutasidenib can be taken orally, which makes it a convenient and flexible treatment option for AML patients.
Second-line therapy: Olutasidenib is typically used as a second-line therapy for AML after other standard treatments have failed, which makes it a valuable option for patients who have already tried other treatments [citation].
Overall, Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib) represents a targeted and effective treatment option for patients with AML and an IDH1 mutation, offering the potential for improved outcomes and a well-tolerated treatment experience [citation].
What Are the Key Side-effects of Rezlidhia (Olutasidenib)?
Rezlidhia (olutasidenib) is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects in some patients. Some of the most commonly reported side effects of olutasidenib include the following:
Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy is a common side effect of olutasidenib, and patients may need to rest more often than usual.
Anemia: Olutasidenib can cause a reduction in red blood cells, leading to anemia, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Nausea: Some patients may experience nausea or vomiting while taking olutasidenib.
Decreased appetite: Some patients may experience a loss of appetite or decreased food intake while taking olutasidenib.
Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of olutasidenib and can range from mild to severe.
Diarrhea: Some patients may experience diarrhea while taking olutasidenib.
Liver function abnormalities: Olutasidenib can cause abnormal changes in liver function, and patients may need to monitor their liver function regularly while taking the medication.