Could adding a third drug to myeloma combination therapy improve outcomes and actually decrease side effects? Yes! A recent study showed that adding daratumumab to lenalidomide and dex not only provided patients with better outcomes, it significantly reduced pain. 

Data from the Phase 3 MAIA trial presented at this year's ASH annual meeting, was presented by Aurore Perrot, MD, PhD from the University of Toulouse. The study compared triplet therapy D-Rd ( Daratumumab, Lenalidomide, and Dexamethasone) Vs. Rd (Lenalidomide and Dexamethasone).

Newly diagnosed patients (both fit and frail) were included in the study and quality of life was reviewed following treatment. 

Dr. Perrot concluded that all frail patients treated with triplet therapy D-Rd had better physical functioning and significantly reduced pain symptoms (As seen in the following chart). They also had favorable changes in social functioning and decreased symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

The treatments were effective against their myeloma and substantially benefited their overall health.

It's good to know that adding another therapy like a monoclonal antibody will provide patients with better outcomes and improve quality of life at the same time. 

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