Phoenix-based Avella Specialty Pharmacy said Tuesday it has been selected to distribute  pharmaceutical manufacturer AbbVie's new leukemia fighting drug Venclexta.

The drug is intended to encourage specific cancer-promoting proteins to self destruct. The particular protein targeted by the pill, BCL-2, is particularly prevalent in people with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CCL), which affects approximately 15,000 additional people each year.

"Thanks to our ability to provide this innovative therapy, patients with CLL who possess this genetic abnormality now have access to another powerful treatment option," Avella Vice President of Business Development Leslie Yendron said. "Our distribution of the latest breakthrough oral oncolytics is just one of the ways that Avella is supporting the delivery of comprehensive care."