European Commission approves Johnson & Johnson's subcutaneous DARZALEX® (daratumumab)-based quadruplet regimen for the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, regardless of transplant eligibility

Core Insights - The European Commission has approved an indication extension for DARZALEX® (daratumumab) subcutaneous formulation in combination with bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients [1][3] - The Phase 3 CEPHEUS study demonstrated significant improvements in minimal residual disease (MRD)-negativity rate, progression-free survival, and complete response rates compared to standard care [1][4] Company Overview - Janssen-Cilag International NV, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, has been a leader in multiple myeloma treatment for over 20 years, with daratumumab becoming a foundational therapy used in over 618,000 patients globally [6][7] - The company aims to provide access to daratumumab-based regimens for all patient populations, regardless of age or fitness, marking a critical step towards achieving a functional cure for multiple myeloma [3][6] Clinical Study Findings - The CEPHEUS study involved 395 patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who were ineligible for stem cell transplantation, comparing daratumumab-VRd to standard VRd [4][5] - At a median follow-up of 59 months, the MRD-negativity rate was 60.9% for daratumumab-VRd versus 39.4% for VRd, with a significant odds ratio of 2.37 [1][4] - The study also reported a 43% reduction in the risk of progression or death with daratumumab-VRd compared to VRd, with median progression-free survival not reached for daratumumab-VRd [1][4] Safety Profile - The safety profile of daratumumab-VRd aligns with known safety profiles for daratumumab SC and VRd, with common Grade 3/4 adverse events including neutropenia (44.2% vs 29.7% for VRd) and thrombocytopenia (28.4% vs 20.0% for VRd) [2][4]