What is Daratumumab and how is it used?
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Daratumumab, also known by the brand name Darzalex, is a targeted cancer drug classified as a monoclonal antibody. It is primarily used to treat multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells found in the bone marrow. How it Works (Mechanism of Action) Daratumumab works by targeting a specific protein cRead more
Daratumumab, also known by the brand name Darzalex, is a targeted cancer drug classified as a monoclonal antibody. It is primarily used to treat multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells found in the bone marrow.
See lessHow it Works (Mechanism of Action)
Daratumumab works by targeting a specific protein called CD38, which is abundantly present on the surface of multiple myeloma cells. By binding to CD38, daratumumab initiates several anti-cancer mechanisms:
* Direct cell death (apoptosis): It can directly induce myeloma cell death.
* Immune system activation: It recruits various immune cells to destroy the cancer cells:
* Complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC): It activates the complement system, a part of the immune system that can directly kill cells.
* Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC): It tags cancer cells for destruction by natural killer (NK) cells.
* Antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP): It signals macrophages to engulf and destroy the cancer cells.
* Immune modulation: It can also help to decrease immune system suppression, allowing the body’s own defenses to work more effectively against the cancer.
How it is Used
Daratumumab is administered by a healthcare provider, either as an intravenous (IV) infusion (into a vein) or a subcutaneous injection (under the skin). The dosing schedule varies depending on the specific regimen and whether it’s used as a single therapy or in combination with other drugs.
It is used in various scenarios for multiple myeloma:
* Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: Often in combination with other standard treatments (e.g., bortezomib, melphalan, prednisone, thalidomide, lenalidomide, dexamethasone), both for patients who are eligible or ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant.
* Relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma: For patients whose cancer has returned or has not responded to previous therapies, sometimes as a single agent (monotherapy) or in combination with other medications.
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, daratumumab can cause side effects. Some common side effects include:
* Infusion-related reactions: These can occur during or shortly after administration and may include symptoms like cough, headache, nausea, chills, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Pre- and post-infusion medications are often given to help prevent these reactions.
* Low blood cell counts: This can include a decrease in white blood cells (increasing infection risk) and platelets (increasing bleeding risk).
* Upper respiratory tract infections (cold-like symptoms)
* Fatigue
* Diarrhea or constipation
* Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage causing tingling, numbness, or pain)
* Swelling (e.g., in hands, ankles, or feet)
It’s important for patients to discuss any side effects or concerns with their healthcare provider.