HOPA Corner

Colleen McCabe, PharmD, BCOP, and Lindsay Mundy, PharmD, BCOP, provided an engaging exploration of the benefits and potential pitfalls seen with the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in an oncology setting. Emerging evidence shows that GLP-1 RAs have potential benefits in patients with cancer; for example, weight loss associated with the use of GLP-1 RAs in people without cancer may be associated with the prevention of obesity-related cancers. Due to their potential for adverse events, however, the use of GLP-1 RAs in those who are subsequently diagnosed with cancer must be managed with care.

Katie O’Reilly, PharmD, BCOP, provides an update on the current and emerging treatment landscape in small cell lung cancer (SCLC), including an overview of immunotherapy in SCLC and the research supporting its use in limited-stage and extensive-stage settings.

Central nervous system involvement in patients diagnosed with solid tumors is common. Kelly Fritz, PharmD, BCOP, and Sara deHoll, PharmD, BCOP, present a review of the treatments for intracranial metastases and leptomeningeal disease, including sequencing and timing of therapies and symptom management.

Robert Mancini, PharmD, BCOP, FHOPA, was installed as the 2025 HOPA president at the HOPA conference in April. In outlining his priorities and plans for his tenure, he enthusiastically pledges to “start the wave!”

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer with rising incidence globally.

Bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) are not new to the hematology treatment landscape, but they are now being investigated in solid tumors. One promising avenue is Delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3)-targeting BiTEs in extensive stage small-cell lung cancer (SCLC).

As oncology pharmacists navigate the ever-evolving therapeutic landscape, regulatory realities pose operational challenges. Scott A. Soefje and Clayton C. Irvine discuss the intricacies of the 505(b)(2) drug approval pathway and its implications on practice management.

Iman Ahmed, PharmD, BCOP, unpacks the evidence for what’s actually contributing to health inequities in hematologic malignancies, and how pharmacists can mitigate these disparities.

HOPA establishes the infrastructure for the task force committed to social justice and practical change within the organization to ensure that healthcare systems value diverse perspectives of healthcare providers and honor lived experiences of patients as we strive for the best outcomes.