Daratumumab After Stem Cell Transplant for Multiple Myeloma

This trial explores the effectiveness of a drug called daratumumab in treating multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, after patients undergo a stem cell transplant. Daratumumab, a monoclonal antibody, may help eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Participants will receive daratumumab treatments on a set schedule for up to 24 months. The trial seeks individuals with multiple myeloma who have already received initial treatment and plan to undergo a standard stem cell transplant. As a Phase 2 trial, it focuses on assessing the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you cannot be on chemotherapy, biologic, or hormonal therapy for cancer treatment while participating. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.

Research has shown that daratumumab is usually well-tolerated for treating multiple myeloma. One study found that using daratumumab alone had effects similar to its use in combination with other treatments. However, infections commonly occurred as a side effect, affecting many patients. The most frequent infections involved the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat. Despite these common side effects, patients taking daratumumab generally demonstrated a high survival rate. This suggests that, despite some risks, the treatment is relatively safe for many people.¹²³⁴⁵

Daratumumab is unique because it targets CD38, a protein highly expressed on multiple myeloma cells, which helps the immune system attack and destroy these cancer cells. Unlike the standard treatments that typically involve chemotherapy and stem cell transplants, daratumumab is a monoclonal antibody, offering a more targeted approach. Researchers are excited about daratumumab because it has shown promise in enhancing the effectiveness of traditional therapies, potentially leading to longer remission periods and improved patient outcomes. This targeted action not only aims to be more effective but also might come with fewer side effects compared to conventional chemotherapy.

Research has shown that daratumumab effectively treats multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. One study found that 95% of patients eligible for a stem cell transplant did not experience disease progression for four years. Another study reported that 91.7% of patients responded well to the treatment. In this trial, participants will receive daratumumab following a stem cell transplant, administered through an IV. These findings suggest that daratumumab can significantly aid in managing multiple myeloma after a stem cell transplant.¹²⁶⁷⁸