Combination Therapy for Multiple Myeloma
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new combination of three treatments—Belantamab Mafodotin (an antibody-drug conjugate), Cyclophosphamide (a chemotherapy drug), and Dexamethasone (a corticosteroid)—for individuals with multiple myeloma that has returned or stopped responding to other treatments. The goal is to determine the effectiveness and safety of these drugs when used together. Participants should have previously tried at least three different myeloma treatments without success and must have measurable disease markers, such as a specific protein level in their blood or urine. For those whose treatments have not worked for multiple myeloma, this trial might be suitable. As a Phase 1, Phase 2 trial, this research aims to understand how the treatment works in people and measure its effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering a chance to contribute to early-stage treatment development.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial requires that you stop any systemic anti-myeloma therapy at least 14 days before starting the study treatment. Additionally, you should not have taken high-dose steroids recently. The protocol does not specify other medications, so it's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
A previous study led to the FDA approval of belantamab mafodotin for treating relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, confirming its safety in humans. However, like many treatments, it can cause side effects. Some participants reported eye problems and low blood counts.
Cyclophosphamide and dexamethasone are often used together in cancer treatments and are generally well-tolerated. Cyclophosphamide may cause nausea, hair loss, and tiredness, while dexamethasone might lead to weight gain, mood changes, and trouble sleeping.
This trial is in its early stages, so the safety of these treatments is still under close study. Early phase trials focus heavily on safety, and participation helps researchers learn more about the safety of these treatments when used together.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about Belantamab Mafodotin in combination with Cyclophosphamide and Dexamethasone for treating multiple myeloma because it offers a novel approach compared to standard treatments. Belantamab Mafodotin is an antibody-drug conjugate, which uniquely targets the BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen) on myeloma cells, delivering a potent anti-cancer agent directly to the cancer cell, minimizing damage to healthy cells. Current standard treatments often involve proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory drugs, which work differently and can have broader side effects. This unique targeting mechanism and the combination approach hold promise for potentially more effective and manageable treatment options for patients.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for Multiple Myeloma?
Research shows that combining belantamab mafodotin, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone can help treat relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Participants in this trial will receive varying dosages of this combination in separate treatment arms. Earlier studies found that belantamab mafodotin alone helped nearly half of the patients by shrinking or eliminating their cancer. Specifically, patients experienced an average progression-free survival of 3.8 months and an overall survival of 17.2 months after starting treatment. Cyclophosphamide may enhance the function of the immune system's natural killer cells, potentially increasing the treatment's effectiveness. This combination offers hope for those who have not succeeded with other treatments.12345
Who Is on the Research Team?
Ashraf Badros, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with Multiple Myeloma that's come back or hasn't responded to treatment. They must have tried at least three prior treatments, including specific anti-myeloma drugs, and not had certain stem cell transplants recently. Participants need good organ function, no active infections, and can't be pregnant or breastfeeding.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Phase I Treatment
Participants receive Belantamab Mafodotin, Cyclophosphamide, and Dexamethasone in two dose levels to assess tolerability
Phase II Treatment
Participants receive the highest tolerated dose to assess response rate and toxicity
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Belantamab Mafodotin
- Cyclophosphamide
- Dexamethasone
Belantamab Mafodotin is already approved in European Union, United States for the following indications:
- Relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
- Relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Lead Sponsor