Effectiveness of Bendamustine-Rituximab Compared to R-CHOP/R-CVP as a First-Line Treatment of Indolent Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma or Mantle-Cell Lymphoma

Background: R-CHOP/R-CVP is the only recommended first-line treatment for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL). Limited treatment alternatives often lead to relapse and refractory NHL, which increases disease progressivity and worsens prognosis. Bendamustine-rituximab is being studied for its potential as a superior first-line therapy for indolent NHL and mantle-cell NHL (MCL); however, it is not in the national guidelines. Evidence-based research is needed to demonstrate the effectivity of bendamustine-rituximab compared to R-CHOP/R-CVP for a complete response of indolent NHL and MCL. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, EBSCOHost, and Cochrane. Studies consistent with clinical question and eligibility criteria were included and critically appraised using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (CEBM) tool. Results: Two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this study, both concluding that bendamustine-rituximab is superior to R-CHOP/R-CVP with a complete response, with RR values of 0.90 (95% CI 0.80 – 1.01) and 0.86 (95% CI 0.76 – 0.98). Conclusion: Bendamustine-rituximab is more effective than R-CHOP/R-CVP as a first-line treatment of indolent NHL or MCL.