The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new drug called Talvey (talquetamab) for adults with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. This drug is for patients whose cancer has returned or stopped responding after at least four prior treatments. Those treatments must have included a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody.
Talvey is a type of immunotherapy known as a bispecific T-cell engager. It works by helping the body's immune cells attack the cancer. The drug is given as an injection under the skin. The approval is based on how many patients responded to the drug and how long that response lasted. However, the FDA may require more studies to confirm the drug's benefit.
Because Talvey can cause serious side effects like cytokine release syndrome and neurologic problems, patients must stay in the hospital for 48 hours after each dose during the first few weeks of treatment. This is a standard safety measure.
If you or a loved one has multiple myeloma, this new approval offers another treatment option. But it is important to talk to your doctor about whether Talvey is right for you. Your doctor can explain the risks and benefits based on your specific health situation.