The FDA has approved a new drug called Xpovio (selinexor) to treat two types of blood cancer: multiple myeloma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Xpovio works by blocking a protein that helps cancer cells survive. It is a pill taken by mouth.
For multiple myeloma, Xpovio is approved for two groups of patients. One group includes adults who have had at least one prior treatment and will take Xpovio together with two other drugs. The other group includes patients who have tried at least four prior therapies and whose cancer has not responded to several other types of drugs.
For DLBCL, Xpovio is approved under accelerated approval for adults whose cancer has come back or not responded after at least two prior treatments. This means the approval is based on early evidence of benefit, and more studies are needed to confirm it works well.
This approval gives patients with these cancers a new treatment option when others have stopped working. However, it is important to talk to your doctor to see if Xpovio is right for you. Your doctor can explain the potential benefits and risks based on your specific health situation.