Study Closing: Venetoclax + Azacitadine as a First Treatment for Higher-Risk MDS Patients

Genentech and AbbVie announced on June 16, 2025, that venetoclax with azacitidine as a first treatment did not help higher-risk MDS patients live longer than patients who took azacitidine with a placebo. These findings came from phase 3 of the VERONA trial. 

About 500 individuals were enrolled in the study. Those involved will be contacted by their doctor to discuss what this update means for their ongoing treatment plans.

Although the combination did not show a survival benefit, no new side effects were reported. Treatment safety remained consistent with what is already known about each medicine. Genentech noted that additional results from the VERONA trial will be released later in 2025.

These findings only affect the VERONA trial. They do not change venetoclax’s current approvals for treating other blood cancers, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

This update also does not impact venetoclax’s role in other ongoing clinical trials, including those that may explore different combinations for MDS. Researchers may continue investigating other venetoclax-based combinations that might offer better results.

If you have questions about current MDS treatment options or available clinical trials, speak with your MDS specialist. They can help you understand the best steps forward based on your individual situation.

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Source: 

• Genentech Provides Update on Phase III Verona Study