JnJ seeks approval from USFDA, EMA for DARZALEX FASPRO as subcutaneous monotherapy for high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma

Smoldering multiple myeloma is an early precursor of active multiple myeloma, where abnormal cells can be detected in the bone marrow, but patients are typically asymptomatic. Fifteen percent of all cases of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma are classified as smoldering multiple myeloma, and half of those diagnosed with high-risk disease will progress to active multiple myeloma within two years. Currently, smoldering multiple myeloma is not generally treated until active multiple myeloma develops. Instead, the standard approach is observation to track the disease for signs of biochemical progression and/or end organ damage, when treatment tends to be initiated. Recent evidence suggests that those at high-risk for progression to active multiple myeloma could benefit from earlier therapeutic intervention.

“There remains an unmet need for early interventions and treatments that are both effective and well tolerated in people living with smoldering multiple myeloma at high-risk of progressing to active multiple myeloma,” said Yusri Elsayed, M.D., M.H.Sc., Ph.D. Global Therapeutic Area Head, Oncology, Innovative Medicine, Johnson & Johnson. “DARZALEX has changed the standard of care in multiple myeloma, and with these submissions to the FDA and EMA, this therapy could become the first approved treatment for patients with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma, potentially shifting the treatment paradigm.”

The first data from the AQUILA study, evaluating the safety and efficacy of DARZALEX FASPRO compared to active monitoring in participants with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma, will be presented at the 2024 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting, taking place in San Diego from December 7-10.

Read also: Johnson & Johnson MedTech bags USFDA nod for the Varipulse Pulsed Field Ablation Platform for atrial fibrillation