Newly-approved Vonjo promising for patients with both low and moderate platelet counts, says analyst

Not only has CTI BioPharma’s (Nasdaq: CTIC) drug Vonjo (pacritinib) already broken new ground by being the first treatment approved for intermediate and high-risk myelofibrosis patients with low platelet counts (below 50x109 per liter of blood), key opinion leaders interviewed by GlobalData note that the drug has promise as a treatment for patients with moderate platelet counts (between 50x109 and 100x109 per liter).

The data and analytics company highlights that Vonjo’s ability to target such critically underserved and distinct patient populations mean its annual sales are set to reach $235 million by 2027, despite upcoming market competition.

Myelofibrosis is a rare blood cancer that causes scarring in the bone marrow, which makes it more difficult to produce red blood cells. A typical blood platelet count for a healthy adult is between 150x109 to 400x109 per liter. Unchecked low levels, also known as thrombocytopenia, can cause life-threatening internal bleeding, and patients with thrombocytopenia often require blood transfusions, which is a major pain point for healthcare providers and patients alike.