Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Decitabine plus HAAG regimen

Decitabine plus HAAG (low-dose cytarabine, aclarubicin, amsacrine, and G-CSF) combines DNA methyltransferase inhibition with intensive chemotherapy to induce differentiation and apoptosis in leukemic cells.

Decitabine plus HAAG (low-dose cytarabine, aclarubicin, amsacrine, and G-CSF) combines DNA methyltransferase inhibition with intensive chemotherapy to induce differentiation and apoptosis in leukemic cells. Used for Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly in elderly or unfit patients.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Decitabine is a hypomethylating agent that inhibits DNA methyltransferase, leading to reactivation of silenced tumor suppressor genes and differentiation of myeloid blasts. The HAAG regimen provides intensive chemotherapy with cytarabine, aclarubicin, and amsacrine to enhance cytotoxic effects. This combination approach targets both epigenetic mechanisms and direct cell kill in acute myeloid leukemia.

Approved indications

• Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly in elderly or unfit patients

Common side effects

• Myelosuppression
• Infection
• Anemia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Mucositis

Key clinical trials

• Study of Decitabine Combined With HAAG Regimen in Newly Diagnosed ETP-ALL/LBL, T/M-MPAL and ALL/LBL With Myeloid or Stem Cell Markers Patients (PHASE3)
• Study of DAC Combined With HAAG Regimen in Newly Diagnosed Younger AML Patients (PHASE3)
• Study of DAC Combined With HAAG Regimen in Newly Diagnosed AML Patients Older Than 60 (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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