daratumumabi

Daratumumab is a medication used to treat multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. It is a monoclonal antibody, meaning it is a laboratory-made protein that targets specific cells in the body. Daratumumab works by binding to a protein called CD38, which is found on the surface of myeloma cells. This binding can lead to the destruction of the myeloma cells.

The medication is administered intravenously, meaning it is given through a vein. It is often used in combination with other multiple myeloma treatments, such as bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone, or as a single agent for relapsed or refractory disease. The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the specific treatment regimen and the patient's response.

Clinical trials have shown that daratumumab can significantly improve progression-free survival and overall survival in patients with multiple myeloma. Common side effects include infusion reactions, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, and respiratory tract infections. More serious side effects can occur, but are less frequent.

Daratumumab was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015. It is manufactured by Janssen Biotech. Its development represents a significant advancement in the treatment of multiple myeloma, offering a new therapeutic option for patients, particularly those whose disease has not responded to other treatments. Ongoing research continues to explore its efficacy in different stages of the disease and in combination with novel therapies.