A comparative safety review of targeted therapies for acute myeloid leukemia

Introduction: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment has primarily focused on 7 + 3 chemotherapy, but in the last decade there has been a significant increase in new therapies, mostly targeted agents, approved for the treatment of AML. We performed a comparative analysis of the unique safety profile of each of these new agents. Areas covered: We conducted a review of the current literature on public databases (PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration) regarding new AML drugs that were approved from 2017 to 2023. Expert opinion: The diagnosis of AML typically carries a poor prognosis but with an increase in the number of drugs that are now available, patients’ outcomes are improving. With novel mechanisms of action, the use of these agents introduces different safety profiles, occasionally with adverse events not previously seen with standard chemotherapy or at different frequencies. An understanding of the drugs available and the safety concerns associated with each one is crucial to selecting the best available option for each patient, and early recognition and appropriate management of drug-related adverse effects.