Dr. Leslie on the Benefits With Zanubrutinib in MCL

Lori A. Leslie, MD, a hematologic specialist at the John Theurer Cancer Center, discusses the benefits with zanubrutinib (Brukinsa) in the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).

Now that zanubrutinib is available, the agent is competing with other available BTK inhibitors, including ibrutinib (Imbruvica) and acalabrutinib (Calquence) in the MCL space. At John Theurer Cancer Center, zanubrutinib has not dramatically changed the treatment landscape; however, it has provided an option that offers more flexibility. The once versus twice daily dosing of zanubrutinib is more convenient for patients and it is potentially better tolerated, says Leslie.

Additionally, zanubrutinib can be given in combination with a proteasome inhibitor for patients with certain comorbidities, such as acid reflux, which is commonly seen in this patient population. This makes the agent a favorable option for many patients in this setting, concludes Leslie.