Panobinostat is an oral histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor and antineoplastic agent. It is primarily used in combination with other medications to treat relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.
Understanding Panobinostat's Role
Panobinostat belongs to a class of drugs called histone deacetylase inhibitors. These drugs work by blocking the action of enzymes called histone deacetylases (HDACs). HDACs play a crucial role in regulating gene expression. By inhibiting HDACs, panobinostat can alter gene expression in cancer cells, leading to:
- Cell Growth Inhibition: Slowing down or stopping the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells.
- Apoptosis (Programmed Cell Death): Triggering cancer cells to self-destruct.
- Differentiation: Encouraging cancer cells to mature into normal cells.
Clinical Application: Multiple Myeloma
Panobinostat's primary clinical application is in the treatment of multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow. Specifically, it's used for patients whose myeloma has relapsed (returned after treatment) or is refractory (resistant to treatment). It is used in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone.
Key Characteristics of Panobinostat:
- Route of Administration: Oral (taken by mouth).
- Mechanism of Action: Histone deacetylase inhibitor.
- Therapeutic Use: Antineoplastic agent for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (in combination with other drugs).
In summary, panobinostat is a targeted cancer therapy that works by modulating gene expression, primarily used to treat relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma when combined with other medications.
