NCT03586609 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Venetoclax, Cladribine, Low Dose Cytarabine, and Azacitidine in Treating Patients With Previously Untreated Acute Myeloid Leukemia
What this study is about
This phase II trial studies how well venetoclax, cladribine, low dose cytarabine, and azacitidine work in treating patients with acute myeloid leukemia that has previously not been treated.
View original scientific description
This phase II trial studies how well venetoclax, cladribine, low dose cytarabine, and azacitidine work in treating patients with acute myeloid leukemia that has previously not been treated. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as venetoclax, cladribine, and low dose cytarabine, work in different ways to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells, by stopping them from dividing, or by stopping them from spreading. Azacitidine may stop the growth of cancer cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. Giving venetoclax, cladribine, low dose cytarabine induction followed by cladribine, low dose cytarabine, and azacitidine consolidation may work better in treating patients with acute myeloid leukemia.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participants with previously untreated acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Prior therapy with hydroxyurea, hematopoietic growth factors, HMA, ATRA, or a total dose of cytarabine up to 2g (for emergency use for stabilization) is allowed.
- Age \>/= 50 years. Participants aged \< 50 years who are unsuitable for standard induction therapy may be eligible after discussion with primary investigator
- Adequate organ function as defined below:
- liver function (bilirubin \< 2mg/dL, AST and/or ALT \<3 x ULN). Unless liver enzyme abnormalities are determined by the treating MD and PI to be due to leukemic infiltration.
- kidney function (creatinine \< 1.5 x ULN ).
- ECOG performance status of ≤ 2.
- A negative urine pregnancy test is required within 1 week for all women of childbearing potential prior to enrolling on this trial.
- Participants must have the ability to understand the requirements of the study and signed informed consent. A signed informed consent by the participants is required prior to their enrollment on the protocol.
Exclusion criteria
- Pregnant women are excluded from this study because the agents used in this study have the potential for teratogenic or abortifacient effects. Because there is a potential risk for adverse events in nursing infants secondary to treatment of the mother with the chemotherapy agents, breastfeeding should also be avoided.
- Uncontrolled intercurrent illness including, but not limited to ongoing or active uncontrolled infection, symptomatic congestive heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, or psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements.
- Participants with documented hypersensitivity to any of the components of the chemotherapy program.
- Men and women of childbearing potential who do not practice contraception. Women of childbearing potential and men must agree to use contraception prior to study entry and for the duration of study participation.
- Prior therapy with venetoclax
- Participants with a diagnosis of acute promyelocytic leukemia (AML-M3) will be excluded from this study.
Where
- Houston, Texas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations