Purpose of review: Advances in the understanding of multiple myeloma pathogenesis have led to the development of innovative targeted therapies and improved management of this aggressive hematological neoplasia. This review will focus on the clinical trials that have reinforced the use of these new agents. Also, we will briefly take a look at the newer drugs making their way out of the laboratory and into early phase studies.
Recent findings: During the past decade new multiple myeloma therapies featuring bortezomib and lenalidomide have come to light, whereas known agents such as thalidomide and arsenic trioxide have been reintroduced as key factors in multiple myeloma management. These new agents and their combinations have shown increased response rates and have added more options for patients with multiple myeloma whose disease has become resistant to conventional therapy. With these drug therapies has come a more targeted approach to treatment enabling not only improved antimyeloma efficacy but also the use of decreased dosing enhancing the safety and tolerability of these regimens. Newer agents including the histone deacetylase, hsp90, mammalian target of rapamycin and Akt inhibitors are showing promise preclinically and are now being assessed in phase I/II trials.
Summary: This new antimultiple myeloma arsenal has shown its worth in both the relapsed/refractory and frontline setting and provides valuable options for patients with this debilitating disease.