Use of daratumumab drug formulation for subcutaneous administration in multiple myeloma therapy: Literature review and clinical observation

Abstract

Study of the molecular pathogenesis of multiple myeloma led to development and introduction of antitumor agents with new mechanisms of action and their combinations into clinical practice. According to several trials, use of anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody daratumumab as part of triplet therapies at an early stage leads to deep and long-term antitumor response, achievement of MRD-negative status, and, as a result, increased survival and improved prognosis in all patient subgroups. High effectiveness of daratumumab subcutaneous formulation close to intravenous formulation has favorable safety profile, short administration time and low rate of infusion reactions which improves patients’ quality of life, affects their treatment compliance, and decreases healthcare costs.We present a clinical observation of a 60-year-old patient with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who previously underwent treatment for another lymphoproliferative disorder which included autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation leading to complete and long-term remission. After 9 intravenous daratumumab infusions (with recommended dose of 16 mg/kg) in accordance to the D-Rd regimen, evaluation of antitumor effect and consideration of socially active lifestyle of the patient, daratumumab formulation for intravenous administration was replaced with subcutaneous formulation of fixed dose 1800 mg. Further deepening of the antitumor response was observed along with manageable safety profile and absence of significant adverse events which allowed to maintain intercourse intervals and improve the patient’s quality of life.