NCT06520098 · VA Office of Research and Development
A Randomized Phase II Study Of Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor With Or Without Venetoclax In Veterans With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL)
(Benefit VA)
What this study is about
People who have chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) are often treated with ibrutinib, acalabrutinib, or zanubrutinib. These are pills that are taken by mouth. This type of pill is called "Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor" or BTKi. Another treatment for CLL/SLL is a different pill called venetoclax.
View original scientific description
People who have chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) are often treated with ibrutinib, acalabrutinib, or zanubrutinib. These are pills that are taken by mouth. This type of pill is called "Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor" or BTKi. Another treatment for CLL/SLL is a different pill called venetoclax.
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
- CLL or SLL diagnosis
- Patients must have been diagnosed with CLL (\> 5000 B-cells per uL of peripheral blood at any point during the course of their disease) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) with \<5000 B-cells per µL of blood but with disease-associated lymphadenopathy by 2018 IWCLL criteria.
- Prior treatment
- Patients must be currently receiving CLL/SLL directed therapy with a BTKi (i.e., ibrutinib, acalabrutinib, zanubrutinib) for at least six months.
- The dose of BTKi must be stable for at least the past three months.
- Age 18 years
- ECOG performance status 0-2
- Detectable or measurable CLL/SLL in blood or imaging during the screening period. Detectable CLL/SLL in the blood is defined either by elevation in absolute lymphocyte count or by diagnostic flow cytometry from blood demonstrating presence of CLL cells.
- Low TLS risk, defined as having all lymph nodes less than 5 cm in diameter (radiographically) and absolute lymphocyte count less than 25
Where
- San Francisco, California
- Kansas City, Missouri
- Durham, North Carolina
- Seattle, Washington
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 Oct 14, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations