Venetoclax
Venclexta (venetoclax) is a targeted cancer therapy that inhibits the BCL-2 protein to help restore apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. It is primarily used to treat certain blood cancers including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in specific patient populations.
Venclexta is an oral BCL-2 inhibitor used to treat certain blood cancers by promoting cancer cell death.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1747562
- Generic
- Venclexta
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
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Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Venclexta is FDA-approved for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), including in patients with or without 17p deletion who have received at least one prior therapy. It is also approved for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in certain adult patients. Treatment may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other agents depending on the indication.
Venclexta is a BCL-2 inhibitor that works by binding to the BCL-2 protein, which is overexpressed in many cancer cells and normally prevents apoptosis. By blocking BCL-2, venetoclax allows cancer cells to undergo programmed cell death (apoptosis), thereby reducing tumor burden.
Venclexta is an oral tablet taken once daily with food. Treatment typically requires a gradual dose escalation (ramp-up phase) over several weeks to reduce the risk of tumor lysis syndrome, a potentially serious complication. Common side effects include neutropenia, anemia, diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue. Drug interactions are significant—avoid concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Regular monitoring of blood counts and tumor burden markers is necessary during treatment.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy