Compositions and methods for treating myelodysplastic syndrome

Abstract

This invention generally relates to compositions and methods for treating myelodysplastic syndrome. In one embodiment, this invention relates to methods for treating myelodysplastic syndrome with ezatiostat or a salt thereof and lenalidomide.

1 . A method for treating a myelodysplastic syndrome in a patient who has prior exposure to lenalidomide which method comprises treating the patient with a therapeutically effective amount of ezatiostat or a salt thereof, wherein the ezatiostat or the salt thereof is administered daily for at least 2 weeks. 
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the patient has developed intolerance to lenalidomide. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the patient experiences a reduced or lack of therapeutic effect with continued lenalidomide treatment. 
     
     
         4 . The method of any one of  claims 1 - 3 , wherein the ezatiostat or the salt thereof is administered in a therapeutically effective amount. 
     
     
         5 - 9 . (canceled) 
     
     
         10 . A composition comprising ezatiostat or a salt thereof and lenalidomide, and optionally a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. 
     
     
         11 . The composition of  claim 10 , wherein the ezatiostat or the salt thereof and the lenalidomide together are in a therapeutically effective amount. 
     
     
         12 . A kit for the treatment of MDS comprising a first composition comprising lenalidomide and a second composition comprising ezatiostat or a salt thereof. 
     
     
         13 . The kit of  claim 12 , wherein the ezatiostat or the salt thereof and the lenalidomide together are in a therapeutically effective amount.