sAML and VYXEOS frequently asked questions
Explore our most frequently asked questions and learn more about VYXEOS (vix-e-ose).
What is t-AML?
Therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia, also known as t-AML, is a type of secondary AML (sAML) that may occur in those who have previously been treated for cancer or non-cancer with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy.
What is AML-MRC?
Acute myeloid leukemia with myelodysplasia-related changes, also known as AML-MRC, is a type of secondary AML (sAML) that may be present in those who have previously had certain types of blood disorders, have a specific genetic mutation, or have certain abnormal blood cells.
How does VYXEOS work?
VYXEOS is an advancement in chemotherapy that combines 2 currently used chemotherapies, daunorubicin and cytarabine, into tiny, bubble-like carriers called liposomes. The liposomes are taken up by leukemia cells (blasts) to a greater extent than by normal cells. Once inside, the liposomes release the drugs to help kill the blasts.
How is VYXEOS administered?
VYXEOS is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion using a central IV line or peripherally inserted central catheter. VYXEOS is given in steps known as induction and consolidation, and your doctor will determine how many cycles of treatment are needed based on your response. You may receive up to two cycles of induction and up to two cycles of consolidation.
What makes me eligible to receive VYXEOS treatment?
There are a variety of factors your healthcare team will consider when determining if you are a candidate for VYXEOS, such as your age, your overall health, and whether or not you have a confirmed diagnosis of t-AML or AML-MRC.
Will I receive my treatment in the hospital or in an outpatient setting?
Your healthcare team may decide to administer VYXEOS in an outpatient setting depending on your overall health before and during therapy, your ability to travel to see your providers in the outpatient setting and several other factors. Your healthcare team will discuss options with you to help determine what is best.
How long will I be on treatment?
Although induction and consolidation phases only require 2 to 3 days of treatment per cycle, you will most likely be in the hospital for several weeks to monitor your response and manage any potential side effects.
Can I do anything that will increase my positivity during treatment?
It is important to remain positive during treatment. Keep participating in hobbies, like puzzles or journaling, and physical activities you are deemed capable of by your doctor, such as walking.
What should I tell my doctor before treatment with VYXEOS?
Before treatment, you should tell your doctor of any known or suspected pregnancy, history of heart disease, history of copper-processing disorder, additional medications you may be taking, or history of treatment with an anthracycline.
What should I tell my doctor during treatment with VYXEOS?
During treatment, you should tell your doctor if you are experiencing fever; signs of infection; bruising; bleeding; signs of heart failure such as shortness of breath or trouble breathing and swelling or fluid retention; skin damage; signs of hypersensitivity reactions; or signs of anaphylaxis such as difficulty breathing, severe itching, skin rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or tongue.
What are the possible side effects of VYXEOS?
The most common side effects of VYXEOS include bleeding events, fever, rash, swelling, nausea, sores in the mouth or throat, diarrhea, constipation, muscle pain, tiredness, stomach pain, difficulty breathing, headache, cough, decreased appetite, irregular heartbeat, pneumonia, blood infection, chills, sleep disorders, and vomiting.
These are not all of the possible side effects of VYXEOS. Be sure to speak to your healthcare team about any side effects you have. You will also have blood tests done to check for side effects during treatment with VYXEOS.
What is the difference between induction and consolidation?
Induction is the first phase of treatment, used to control the disease and reduce the number of blasts to achieve remission (a decrease in or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer). Consolidation is the next phase of treatment, used to maintain remission and decrease the number of any remaining blasts.
Why might I need a second induction or consolidation?
Your VYXEOS dosing schedule is designed specifically for you by your healthcare team based on your response at certain benchmarks (like bone marrow assessments) during treatment.
Learn more about multiple cycles of induction and consolidation.
Will my insurance cover VYXEOS?
Ask your healthcare team about your insurance coverage for VYXEOS. You can also contact our dedicated reimbursement specialists at JazzCares, our patient support hotline. Call 1-833-533-JAZZ (5299) Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM ET.
Are there any financial assistance programs available to me?
Our patient support program, JazzCares, has dedicated specialists who are available to assist you with financial coverage options for VYXEOS. Contact our team at 1-833-533-JAZZ (5299) Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM ET for all questions regarding financial assistance options.
Who can answer specific questions I have regarding my treatment and insurance coverage?
Your healthcare team is the best source of information about treatment and insurance coverage with VYXEOS.
