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New Study Shows Continuous Treatment with REVLIMID Prolongs Remission in Multiple Myeloma Patients

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Continuous treatment with the oral drug REVLIMID following a stem cell transplant significantly prolongs remission in patients with multiple myeloma, according to a new study sponsored by the National Cancer Institute. This approach allows patients to manage their cancer while living an active lifestyle, as demonstrated by Elijah Alexander, founder of the Tackle Cancer Foundation and a myeloma survivor himself.

In the study, patients who did not receive continuous treatment after transplant relapsed or worsened after just over two years, while more than half of those who received continuous REVLIMID treatment remained in remission. This new approach to treatment is made possible by new types of cancer treatments that are more tolerable than traditional chemotherapy, such as REVLIMID, which does not cause neuropathy.

Key Takeaways:

  • Continuous treatment with REVLIMID following a stem cell transplant significantly prolongs remission in patients with multiple myeloma.
  • Over 50% of patients who did not receive continuous treatment after transplant relapsed or worsened after just over two years.
  • In the group of patients who received a transplant followed by continuous REVLIMID, more than 50% remained in remission.
  • REVLIMID does not cause neuropathy, a painful condition that can limit the use of other drug treatments.
  • This new approach to treatment is made possible by new types of cancer treatments that are more tolerable than traditional chemotherapy.
  • Elijah Alexander, founder of the Tackle Cancer Foundation, is a myeloma survivor who was diagnosed at 35 years old and has been living an active lifestyle on continuous REVLIMID treatment.

Statistics:

  • 50% of patients who did not receive continuous treatment after transplant relapsed or worsened after just over two years.
  • More than 50% of patients receiving continuous REVLIMID treatment remained in remission.
  • REVLIMID is a more tolerable treatment option compared to traditional chemotherapy, as it does not cause neuropathy.

Sources:

  • Blood Weekly editors from staff and other reports.
  • National Cancer Institute (sponsored the study).
  • Tackle Cancer Foundation (Elijah Alexander, founder).

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