ASCO 2016
Daratumumab slows progression in refractory multiple myeloma
Prof Palumbo - University of Torino, Torino, Italy
Today we present a major finding from a randomised study comparing a three drug combination including daratumumab, a novel monoclonal antibody, in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone. This three drug combo has been compared with bortezomib and dexamethasone, that is the current standard of care for the treatment of relapsed refractory multiple myeloma. The major efficacy finding is coming from a 61% reduction in the risk of progression or death and in a doubling in the remission duration of patients who received this treatment in comparison with the control arm.
From a safety point of view there was an excellent safety profile because the monoclonal antibodies did not increase the toxicity of bortezomib and dexamethasone so there was no signal in terms of cumulative toxicity. The only toxicity coming from the antibodies was the usual infusion reaction that is mainly present in the first cycle.
In conclusion, we should say that today with the combination of this daratumumab anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone we do have a new standard of care for patients who were receiving until today the two drug combination, bortezomib dexamethasone alone.