The safety of daratumumab for the treatment of multiple myeloma

Introduction: The overall survival of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) has changed dramatically in the last decade. MM remains an incurable plasma cell disorder but immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) has emerged as a promising treatment.

Areas covered: Fully published, clinical trials including patients with relapsed or refractory MM were reviewed. Safety data of daratumumab (DARA) single-agent or in combination regimens have been addressed. Additionally, infusion-related reactions, data on special populations, and DARA-interference with laboratory testing, including assessment of MM response in patients have also been addressed.

Expert opinion: Daratumumab both as single agent and in combination regimens has shown a favorable safety profile without significant increase in toxicities. Extensive clinical development of DARA is currently ongoing and given the efficacy that has been seen with this drug in clinical trials, DARA is likely to change the landscape of myeloma treatment.