Bristol-Meyers Squibb awards CU Gynecologic Oncology $600,000 research grant to study an oral blood thinner to prevent blood clots in women with gynecologic cancer
Denver (May 21, 2015) – University of Colorado Gynecology Oncology, the largest board-certified surgical gynecologic oncology team in Colorado, has been awarded a $600,000 grant from Bristol-Meyers Squibb to explore a new form of oral blood thinner medication for women undergoing gynecological cancer treatment.
“The results from this study could drastically improve the quality of life for women after receiving gynecology cancer treatments. ” said Saketh Guntupalli MD, Assistant Professor at University of Colorado School of Medicine and author of the grant application.
A daily pill that requires little monitoring and dietary restrictions would allow for a more simple cancer recovery period.Dr. Saketh Guntupalli
The grant allows CU gynecologic oncologists to investigate the medication apixaban that could be taken once a day orally for 28 days. Previous oral medications used to prevent blood clots following oncology surgeries required careful monitoring, dietary restrictions and dose adjustments (often every few days). The primary blood clot preventative method has traditionally included 28 days of pills or injections.
Apixaban could offer patients clear advantages. The oral pills are easier to administer than shots, as well as compared to previously used oral medication. Apixaban would not require monitoring or dose adjustments.
The University of Colorado Gynecologic Oncology division began enrolling participants in the study in May 2015. The study will continue for 18 months and includes 400 total patients. Read the full clinical trial on the National Institutes of Health website.
About University of Colorado Gynecologic Oncology
University of Colorado Gynecologic Oncology is dedicated to treating, curing and providing support for women with gynecologic cancers or gynecological surgical needs, including the complex cases other doctors are not able to treat. UC Gyn Onc is the largest board-certified surgical gynecologic oncology team in Colorado and the only National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) center in the Rocky Mountain region. The practice is part of the University of Colorado Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and has locations at the UC Cancer Center in Aurora and at the Lone Tree Health Center. Learn more at University of Colorado Gynecologic Oncology.