In a nutshell
This study aimed to investigate the combination D-VCd containing daratumumab (Darzalex), bortezomib (Velcade), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), and dexamethasone (Decadron) in patients with multiple myeloma.
This study concluded that this combination was safe and effective for these patients.
Some background
Daratumumab and bortezomib are both targeted therapy drugs. They are used to treat multiple myeloma (MM). Cyclophosphamide is a chemotherapy that can be used to treat MM and other cancers. Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid medication. It decreases swelling and inflammation for patients with MM.
It is unknown if this combination would be safe and effective in newly diagnosed patients with MM (NDMM) and relapsed MM (RMM).
Methods & findings
This study involved 100 patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) and relapsed MM (RMM). Patients were treated with D-VCd combination. Eligible patients underwent autologous stem cell transplantation. This is a procedure in which stem cells are removed, stored, and later given back to the same person.
In NDMM patients, very good partial response after 4 induction cycles was 44%. The overall response rate was 79%. At the end of induction, the overall response rate was 81%. The 12-month survival rate without cancer worsening was 87%.
In RMM patients, very good partial response after 4 induction cycles was 57.1% and the overall response rate was 71.4%. The 12-month survival without cancer worsening was 66.2%.
59% of all patients experienced fatigue as a side effect of treatment. 13% experienced low white blood cell count. 54% of patients had an infusion reaction (reaction after drug administered). This mainly occurred during the first dose.
The bottom line
This study concluded that the D-VCd treatment combination was safe and effective for patients with MM.
The fine print
This study included a small number of patients and a short follow-up period. Further studies are needed.
Published By :
British Journal of Haematology
Date :
Mar 03, 2019
