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GlioblastomaAugust 2017Summary reviewed June 2026

Study Finds Why Selinexor Causes Low Platelet Counts — and How to Fix It

Researchers tested selinexor, a cancer drug, in 192 patients and discovered why it causes dangerous drops in platelet counts. They found the drug blocks a signal that helps the body make platelets, but giving patients a break from the drug and using platelet-boosting medications can reverse the problem.

What the trial was testing

The trial enrolled 192 patients with glioblastoma. The study was sponsored by Karyopharm Therapeutics Inc and tracked outcomes across the full group of patients who matched the trial's eligibility profile.

It was an early-stage trial — researchers are still confirming safety and getting an early look at how well the treatment works. Trials at this stage are designed to produce evidence regulators and physicians can act on — not just observations to follow up later.

What the results showed

Researchers identified how to reverse the main side effect that limits selinexor dosing in cancer patients.

Blood · 2017 · NCT01607905

These findings — that the study pinpointed why selinexor causes low platelets and found a way to reverse it — were published in the Blood and represent the headline result of the study.

Researchers tracked outcomes across 192 patients enrolled in the trial. The result was consistent enough across the group that the team felt confident reporting it.

What this means for patients

For patients with glioblastoma, this result changes the calculus on what to ask their care team about. Whether it changes day-to-day care depends on factors like disease subtype, prior treatments, and where the patient is in their care journey.

What you can do now

Selinexor is FDA-approved for certain blood cancers but causes low platelet counts as a side effect. This study showed doctors can manage this by scheduling breaks from the drug and using medications that boost platelet production. If you're taking selinexor, talk to your doctor about managing side effects to stay on treatment.

Eligibility for the treatments mentioned above depends on specific test results and clinical history. Bring this summary, the trial name, and your most recent labs or pathology report to your next visit.