Multiple myeloma maintenance therapy: A review of the pharmacologic treatment
Over the last decade, numerous drug therapies have emerged for the treatment of multiple myeloma including immunomodulating agents namely thalidomide, lenalidomide, and pomalidomide and proteasome inhibitors namely bortezomib and carfilzomib. These agents have transformed the treatment of multiple myeloma and the role of high-dose chemotherapy followed by stem cell transplantation in the treatment of the disease. There are now studies that evaluate the use of drug therapy as maintenance following autologous stem cell transplantation; these studies have shown improvements in surrogate endpoints such as progression-free surv...
Source: Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice - December 28, 2014 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Shank, B. R., Brown, V. T., Schwartz, R. N. Tags: Review Articles Source Type: research

Establishing an international baseline for medication safety in oncology: Findings from the 2012 ISMP International Medication Safety Self Assessment(R) for Oncology
Conclusions This international snapshot provides important data about the level of implementation of system-based safeguards in oncology practice, key improvement opportunities, and represents a baseline for future improvement efforts. A collaborative approach to identifying vulnerabilities and developing solutions for safe medication use in oncology will enhance the care of patients with cancer internationally. (Source: Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice)
Source: Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice - December 28, 2014 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Greenall, J., Shastay, A., Vaida, A. J., U, D., Johnson, P. E., O'Leary, J., Chambers, C. Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

Medication adherence among adults prescribed imatinib, dasatinib, or nilotinib for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia
Conclusions Optimal tyrosine kinase inhibitor adherence in chronic myeloid leukemia patients poses a significant obstacle in achieving best possible outcomes while reducing healthcare costs. In this study, one in three chronic myeloid leukemia patients treated with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor were non-adherent to their regimen. Those at higher risk of non-adherence were on no concurrent medications, less than 50 years old, and those treated with imatinib. Active intervention to improve tyrosine kinase inhibitor adherence should be developed, implemented, and evaluated to improve patient outcomes at our center. (Source: Jou...
Source: Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice - December 28, 2014 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Anderson, K. R., Chambers, C. R., Lam, N., Yau, P. S., Cusano, F., Savoie, M. L., Sheikh, N. Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

Medication safety and the administration of intravenous vincristine: International survey of oncology pharmacists
Conclusion Comparisons with three previous surveys are difficult as the majority of respondents in those studies were from the USA. A number of areas appear to have improved, particularly the preparation of vincristine in mini-bags, but they are far from perfect. Deaths continue to occur following accidental intrathecal administration of vincristine. International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioner members are urged to lead the way in incorporating strategies for prevention into institutions worldwide. (Source: Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice)
Source: Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice - December 28, 2014 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Gilbar, P., Chambers, C. R., Larizza, M. Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

Compliance with safe handling guidelines of antineoplastic drugs in Jordanian hospitals
Conclusions Results of this study showed the levels of compliance with guidelines pertaining to work place and workers who prepare and administer antineoplastic medications. Among other points, compliance with guidelines pertaining to wearing personnel protective equipments was limited and required further improvement. (Source: Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice)
Source: Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice - December 28, 2014 Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Al-Azzam, S. I., Awawdeh, B. T., Alzoubi, K. H., Khader, Y. S., Alkafajei, A. M. Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research