Blenrep Approved: What This Means for the Myeloma Community

The MMRF is excited to share that the FDA has approved Blenrep (belantamab mafodotin) combinations for multiple myeloma patients who have relapsed and have received at least two prior lines of treatment. The announcement was eagerly anticipated, especially after the FDA took some time to weigh the data presented at July’s Oncology Drug Advisory Committee (ODAC).

This is encouraging news for our community. As an IV infusion like Sarclisa or Kyprolis, Blenrep provides an additional off‑the‑shelf treatment option that can help more people access care from their doctor’s office or cancer center. Also, unlike CAR T or bispecific therapy, patients can begin treatment without hospitalization needed to manage certain side effects like CRS or ICANS.

What to Expect with Blenrep

Clinical trial data showed how safe and effective Blenrep (in combination with Velcade and dexamethasone) was for patients compared to Darzalex, Velcade, and dexamethasone. Here were the highlights:

• Improved responses: Adding Blenrep to standard treatment helped patients live almost three times longer without their cancer getting worse.
• Manageable side-effects: The most common serious side effect with Blenrep was eye-related problems (such as blurred vision or dry eyes), which were usually manageable with dose changes, eye drops, or treatment breaks, but often required close monitoring. Other side effects seen were typical for myeloma therapies (like low blood counts and tiredness), and doctors monitored patients regularly to help manage these issues.

Next Steps for Patients

Now that Blenrep is available, it is important to have a conversation with your care team if this treatment could be a viable option for you. Here are some questions to ask that help start the discussion:

• How does Blenrep compare with the other treatments I’m considering?
• What side effects should I watch for, especially related to my eyes, and how will we monitor and manage them throughout treatment?
• How often will I need to come in for infusions and eye exams, and what will my schedule look like day-to-day?
• Will this treatment affect my daily activities, like driving, working, or traveling, and what support resources are available?

In addition to your care team, the MMRF Patient Navigation Center can offer support in answering these questions and give one‑on‑one guidance tailored for  you. The MMRF Education Hub also offers additional materials to help better understand treatment options and navigate you along your myeloma journey.