WHAT IS FOLLICULAR LYMPHOMA?
Follicular lymphoma is a b-cell lymphoma. Like marginal zone lymphoma, follicular lymphoma usually spreads slowly and is not genetic or passed down through families. Instead, it's a genetic mutation of b-cell DNA.
According to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, although follicular lymphoma usually originates in the b cell in the lymph nodes, "it may also metastasize to the bone marrow and/or spleen." 4
Scientists continue to study what causes follicular lymphoma. Like marginal zone lymphoma, several environmental triggers probably cause the b-cells to mutate into this type of lymphoma. However, according to Cancer Treatment Centers of America, researchers believe that "exposure to pesticides and prior use of immunosuppressive therapy—and certain genetic influences may be at play." 4
It's not uncommon for follicular lymphoma to be asymptomatic. However, it's common to experience swelling in the armpits, neck, groin, and abdomen. Like marginal zone lymphoma, symptoms of follicular lymphoma include fatigue, weight loss, and night sweats.
Follicular lymphoma is considered a chronic illness, and treatment options include radiation treatment, chemotherapy, and monoclonal antibody therapy.
What is Ukoniq and How Does It Work?
When Ukoniq first hit pharmacy shelves in 2021, TG Therapeutics marketed it as a revolutionary treatment for specific types of lymphoma. According to a TG Therapeutics 2021 press release in early 2021, the company celebrated the FDA's accelerated approval for "the first and only, oral, once daily, inhibitor." 2
Ukoniq is a PI3 kinase inhibitor that works by inhibiting the production of an abnormal protein that helps cells divide. By targeting these proteins, Ukoniq slows or even stops the growth rate of cancerous cells.
In the past, the FDA issued warnings over other PI3 kinase inhibitors. According to lawsuits.com, "In 2015, the FDA issued similar warnings about the cancer drug Zydelig." 5
Unlike Zydelig, Ukoniq showed true potential in phase 1 trials.
However, TG's miracle drug may not be as revolutionary as the company marketed. During further clinical studies, the FDA found "a possible increased risk of death in patients receiving Ukoniq." 1
Following the FDA's announcement, TG Therapeutics pulled Ukoniq from U.S. pharmacies.