The Importance of Continuing Treatment
VIDAZA works best when taken for at least 4–6 cycles (about 4–6 months). It takes time for a drug like VIDAZA to achieve what it needs to in the body.
If you seem to be improving with VIDAZA, your doctor may want to continue treatment for as long as you benefit from it.
Common Patient Questions
Patients often ask about staying on VIDAZA therapy. Here are some common questions and answers.
Q:
How many cycles (months) of VIDAZA do I need before my cell counts improve?
A:
Every patient responds differently. In a study of VIDAZA, many patients received benefit from treatment with VIDAZA.1 The percentage of patients who responded when treated with VIDAZA was 16%. Of those who achieved a complete response or partial response, about 92.9% saw an initial positive effect* within 6 cycles. Some patients responded after just 2 cycles.1
Q:
My symptoms are improving. Why do I need to stay on VIDAZA?
A:
Because of the way it works in your body, VIDAZA is effective only if you receive it consistently. If you stop receiving VIDAZA, your symptoms may return.2
Q:
How long will I benefit from treatment with VIDAZA?
A:
In 2 studies of patients receiving VIDAZA, treatment lasted nearly a year on average.3 In one of the studies, many patients who received benefit from VIDAZA didn't need blood transfusions for almost a year.3
Q:
How long should I receive VIDAZA?
A:
With your doctor's approval, you may receive VIDAZA as long as you continue to benefit from it.3
*The first day of a 4-week period where at least 1 cell count returns to normal.
References:
- Data on file, Pharmion Corporation.
- Herman JG, Baylin SB. Gene silencing in cancer in association with promoter hypermethylation. N Eng J Med. 2003;349(21):2042-2054.
- VIDAZA full prescribing information.