What maintenance therapy is prescribed after a stem cell transplant for myeloma?
Lenalidomide (Revlimid) is currently the only single drug approved by the FDA specifically for maintenance therapy after a stem cell transplant. It's become the standard of care because it's well-tolerated and effective at sustaining Show Full Answer
What maintenance therapy is prescribed after a stem cell transplant for myeloma?
Lenalidomide (Revlimid) is currently the only single drug approved by the FDA specifically for maintenance therapy after a stem cell transplant. It's become the standard of care because it's well-tolerated and effective at sustaining remission.
In studies, lenalidomide maintenance helped people stay in remission for around 57 months compared to 30 months without maintenance treatment. The drug appears to become more effective over time, which is why many people stay on it indefinitely until there's no evidence of cancer cells remaining.
Other medications may be used depending on your specific situation:
* Bortezomib (Velcade) or ixazomib (Ninlaro) - proteasome inhibitors sometimes used for people with high-risk genetic features
* Daratumumab (Darzalex) - a monoclonal antibody that may be used if myeloma relapses after transplant
* Corticosteroids like dexamethasone or prednisone - often combined with other maintenance drugs
The goal of maintenance therapy is to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and keep you in remission as long as possible while maintaining your quality of life.
January 6
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