Real-world evidence leads to daratumumab being routinely available for multiple myeloma patients

Following review of real-world evidence collected during a limited access period, a simple injection has been approved for routine availability to treat multiple myeloma. Daratumumab, a monoclonal antibody, is administered in a single injection and was administered to over 2000 NHS patients as part of the Cancer Drugs Fund.

Multiple myeloma can affect the entire body and can lead to a weakened immune system, weight loss, fatigue, unusual bleeding – such as frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums and heavy periods – and pain within the bone. Around 5000 people are diagnosed with multiple myeloma each year in the UK. Those most likely to be affected are males, those over 60 years of age and those with African ancestry.

Daratumumab, which works by attaching itself to a protein on the cancer’s cell, thus acting as a distress signal to the immune system which will then kill the cancer cell, has the potential to extend patient’s lives for an average of 9 months.

This new treatment was initially made available in 2018 through the Cancer Drugs Fund, which was set up to enable patient access to new treatment whilst data continued to be collected on its clinical and cost effectiveness. It is hoped that helping people with multiple myeloma live for longer will improve their quality of life as well as giving them the chance to access further treatments which may prolong their lives further, or even cure them.

The treatment will be available to patients with recurring multiple myeloma who have previously used at least three other unsuccessful treatments, such as stem cell transplants.

Initially patients will receive the injection on a weekly basis, after the first 2 months it can be administered bi-weekly and then just monthly after half-a-year.

NHS Chief Executive, Amanda Pritchard, has commented on this development stating, “The drug will offer a ray of light to hundreds of people each year who have had limited success with other treatments for this devastating, advanced blood cancer”.

In addition to this, further study is being done into whether it could be administered at an earlier stage of treatment, which will allow more patients to have the opportunity to benefit.