Dr. Verstovsek on the Efficacy of Momelotinib in Myelofibrosis

Srdan Verstovsek, MD, PhD, professor, director, Hanns A. Pielenz Clinical Research Center for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, chief, Section for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discusses the efficacy of momelotinib in myelofibrosis.

The initial goal in the development of momelotinib was to control spleen size and symptoms in patients with myelofibrosis. However, the agent also demonstrated the abilityto improve anemia in this patient population, Verstovsek says. By controlling inflammation and the proliferation of cells, momelotinib can alleviate symptoms associated with myelofibrosis and make patients feel better, Verstovsek adds. Additionally, momelotinib inhibits the ALK2 receptor, decreasing hepcidin levels and providing additional iron for red blood cells in the bone marrow, Verstovsek explains.

Considering spleen size, symptoms, and anemia are the 3 parameters physicians use when deciding to treat patients with myelofibrosis, the utilization of momelotinib could provide a benefit for these patients, Verstovsek concludes.