Dr Berdeja on the Current Role of BCMA-Targeted Therapies in Multiple Myeloma

Jesus Berdeja, MD, director, Multiple Myeloma Research, Tennessee Oncology, discusses the current role of BCMA-targeted therapies in multiple myeloma, and imparts advice to colleagues regarding the sequencing of bispecific antibodies and CAR T-cell therapies.

Emerging data suggest that patients with relapsed disease who initially respond to BCMA-directed CAR T-cell therapy may respond favorably to subsequent treatment with bispecific antibodies, Berdeja begins. However, the reverse sequence may provide less benefit. Administration of CAR T-cell therapy after progression on a bispecific antibody may reduce the efficacy of the CAR T-cell therapy, which is often accompanied by a shorter duration of response, he explains. Therefore, the recommended treatment approach in this space involves the use of CAR T-cell therapy as initial treatment, followed by the administration of bispecific antibodies if appropriate, Berdeja says.

The earlier exploration of BCMA-directed therapies could provide an advantage to patients in the frontline setting, he expands. However, the proper administration of these complex therapies requires considerable experience and expertise. The duration and elevation of response rates achieved with these novel therapies is superior to that of alternative treatments in the relapsed/refractory setting, Berdeja emphasizes. These data underscore the importance of considering these innovative therapies for eligible patients.

The evolving treatment landscape in multiple myeloma necessitates close collaboration between oncologists to facilitate the integration and administration of these novel therapeutics, Berdeja continues. Clinicians who may lack experience administering these complex therapies should seek guidance from, and form partnerships with experienced colleagues to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and treatment outcomes, he concludes.