New and emerging treatments in myeloma

25 years ago, we had no myeloma-specific cancer treatments. Today, we have a range of treatments that can be given in multiple combinations by the NHS, bringing significant improvements in outcomes for both newly diagnosed and relapsing patients. This has led to significantly improved outcomes for both newly diagnosed and relapsing patients.

Recently, several next generation and altogether new classes of new drugs, have, or are in the process of gaining market authorisation or use in myeloma patients. At the same time, research continues apace, leading the way for more treatments to be approved in the future.

The following section describes the most significant new drugs currently in the pipeline for myeloma patients. In addition to anti-myeloma drugs, researchers are also seeking to improve supportive treatments, especially for myeloma bone disease.

Most of the drugs described below, at present, are only available within the clinical trial setting. Since clinical trials form an important treatment option for patients at all stages of disease, it is important nurses are aware of the current myeloma treatment pipeline and the trials that are ongoing around their local area.

A list of ongoing trials can be found on the Myeloma UK Clinical Trial Tracker and drugs currently available or in trials are detailed on our Myeloma Drug Finder.