[Jade]

Keytruda / pembrolizumab for multiple myeloma?

by Jade on Sat Sep 06, 2014 3:53 pm

Pembrolizumab (Keytruda), which is a PD-1 inhibitor which has been in trials for myeloma, has just been approved for melanoma.

What does this mean for myeloma? Can it be prescribed for off label use, and will insurance cover it?

Does anyone have experience with this in a trial? I know there is one with Revlimid that is open.

Very encouraged that a PD-1 inhibitor was approved. Thanks for your help.

[Dr. Jonathan Kaufman]

Re: Keytruda / pembrolizumab for multiple myeloma?

by Dr. Jonathan Kaufman on Sat Sep 06, 2014 4:44 pm

The approval of this class of drugs is very exciting in all of cancer. While exciting and with a strong rationale, we have yet to see any positive clinical data in myeloma. I doubt it would be covered by insurance. If possible, I would strongly encourage participation in clinical trials if appropriate.

[Beacon Staff]

Re: Keytruda / pembrolizumab for multiple myeloma?

by Beacon Staff on Sat Sep 06, 2014 4:46 pm

You can view a list of the trials being conducted testing Keytruda in myeloma by going to this list at clinicaltrials.gov.

Currently, there are two trials. Both are for relapsed patients with at least two prior treatments. One trial is of single-agent Keytruda, while the second is testing Keytruda in combination with Revlimid and dexamethasone.