A recent study suggests that Mozobil helps multiple myeloma patients with prior exposure to Revlimid collect enough stem cells for transplantation.

The study investigators conclude that stem cell mobilization with the aid of a growth factor plus Mozobil (plerixafor) is an effective upfront approach for multiple myeloma patients who plan to undergo a transplant, regardless of previous Revlimid (lenalidomide) exposure.

“With growth factor and preemptive Mozobil, virtually all patients with multiple myeloma can have successful stem cell collection,” said Dr. Luciano Jose Costa of the Medical University of South…

The results of a Greek analysis show that elderly multiple myeloma patients do not respond as well to treatment as their younger counterparts. However, the results also show that novel agents extend the overall survival of elderly myeloma patients compared to conventional chemotherapy.

The Greek researchers point out that their analysis was retrospective in nature and that controlled clinical trials targeting the elderly population are necessary to properly assess their response to novel agents such as Velcade (bortezomib), thalidomide (Thalomid), and Revlimid (lenalidomide).

According to Dr. Ravi…

The results of a recent Phase 2 clinical trial comparing four Velcade-based combination therapies in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients show that a four-drug combination containing Velcade, Revlimid, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone led to similarly high response rates as the three-drug regimens, but resulted in a higher rate of side effects.

“We were hoping to see more activity at the same level of toxicity as the three-drug combination, but the result was similar efficacy at higher toxicity,” said Dr. Shaji Kumar of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and lead investigator…

Results of a small French study support previous findings that Revlimid in combination with dexamethasone is effective in elderly patients with relapsed multiple myeloma.

Importantly, the researchers found that almost a third of responding patients could remain on therapy following dose adjustments, which, according to the researchers, highlights “the need for a personalized therapeutic approach according to patient age and vulnerability.” 

Revlimid (lenalidomide) in combination with dexamethasone (Decadron) is a standard therapy for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.  Patients are typically prescribed a starting dose of 25 mg of…

According to a recent Swedish study, a family history of blood clots has a greater impact on the risk of developing blood clots in multiple myeloma patients than in the general population.

“There are probably synergistic effects; i.e., if you have a family history [of blood clots] and multiple myeloma, the risk is more then the sum of the individual risks,” explained Dr. Sigurdur Kristinsson of the Karolinska University Hospital in Sweden and lead investigator of the study.

Based on the study’s findings, Dr. Kristinsson said, “Perhaps family history should…