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DARZALEX FASPRO® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj)-based regimen shows 95 percent progression-free survival at four years in transplant-eligible, newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma who achieved sustained MRD negativity

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Johnson & Johnson announced impressive clinical trial results for DARZALEX FASPRO in multiple myeloma treatment. The Phase 3 PERSEUS study showed 95.3% progression-free survival at 48 months in transplant-eligible patients, with over 55.8% achieving sustained MRD negativity for 24+ months using DARZALEX FASPRO-based regimen (D-VRd) followed by D-R maintenance. The Phase 3 CEPHEUS study in transplant-ineligible patients demonstrated 60.4% overall MRD negativity and 69% progression-free survival at 54 months with D-VRd treatment. The drug showed significant improvements over standard treatments across multiple efficacy measures, with consistent safety profiles, positioning DARZALEX FASPRO as a cornerstone therapy for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients.
Johnson & Johnson ha annunciato risultati clinici impressionanti per DARZALEX FASPRO nel trattamento del mieloma multiplo. Lo studio di Fase 3 PERSEUS ha mostrato una sopravvivenza libera da progressione del 95,3% a 48 mesi nei pazienti idonei al trapianto, con oltre il 55,8% che ha raggiunto una negatività MRD sostenuta per più di 24 mesi utilizzando un regime a base di DARZALEX FASPRO (D-VRd) seguito da mantenimento con D-R. Lo studio di Fase 3 CEPHEUS, condotto su pazienti non idonei al trapianto, ha dimostrato una negatività MRD complessiva del 60,4% e una sopravvivenza libera da progressione del 69% a 54 mesi con il trattamento D-VRd. Il farmaco ha mostrato miglioramenti significativi rispetto ai trattamenti standard in molteplici parametri di efficacia, con profili di sicurezza costanti, posizionando DARZALEX FASPRO come una terapia fondamentale per i pazienti con mieloma multiplo di nuova diagnosi.
Johnson & Johnson anunció resultados clínicos impresionantes para DARZALEX FASPRO en el tratamiento del mieloma múltiple. El estudio de Fase 3 PERSEUS mostró una supervivencia libre de progresión del 95,3% a los 48 meses en pacientes elegibles para trasplante, con más del 55,8% alcanzando una negatividad sostenida de MRD por más de 24 meses utilizando un régimen basado en DARZALEX FASPRO (D-VRd) seguido por mantenimiento con D-R. El estudio de Fase 3 CEPHEUS en pacientes no elegibles para trasplante demostró un 60,4% de negatividad global de MRD y un 69% de supervivencia libre de progresión a los 54 meses con el tratamiento D-VRd. El medicamento mostró mejoras significativas sobre los tratamientos estándar en múltiples medidas de eficacia, con perfiles de seguridad consistentes, posicionando a DARZALEX FASPRO como una terapia fundamental para pacientes recién diagnosticados con mieloma múltiple.
존슨앤존슨은 다발성 골수종 치료를 위한 DARZALEX FASPRO의 임상 시험 결과를 발표했습니다. 3상 PERSEUS 연구에서 이식 적합 환자군의 48개월 무진행 생존율이 95.3%로 나타났으며, DARZALEX FASPRO 기반 요법(D-VRd)과 D-R 유지요법을 사용해 55.8% 이상이 24개월 이상 지속적인 MRD 음성을 달성했습니다. 3상 CEPHEUS 연구에서는 이식 비적합 환자에서 D-VRd 치료로 전체 MRD 음성률 60.4%와 54개월 무진행 생존율 69%를 보였습니다. 이 약물은 여러 효능 지표에서 표준 치료 대비 유의미한 개선을 보였으며, 안전성 프로필도 일관되어 DARZALEX FASPRO가 새로 진단된 다발성 골수종 환자 치료의 핵심 요법으로 자리매김했습니다.
Johnson & Johnson a annoncé des résultats cliniques impressionnants pour DARZALEX FASPRO dans le traitement du myélome multiple. L'étude de phase 3 PERSEUS a montré une survie sans progression de 95,3 % à 48 mois chez les patients éligibles à la greffe, avec plus de 55,8 % atteignant une négativité MRD soutenue pendant plus de 24 mois grâce à un régime à base de DARZALEX FASPRO (D-VRd), suivi d'un maintien par D-R. L'étude de phase 3 CEPHEUS menée chez des patients non éligibles à la greffe a démontré une négativité globale de la MRD de 60,4 % et une survie sans progression de 69 % à 54 mois avec le traitement D-VRd. Le médicament a montré des améliorations significatives par rapport aux traitements standards sur plusieurs critères d'efficacité, avec des profils de sécurité constants, positionnant DARZALEX FASPRO comme une thérapie de référence pour les patients nouvellement diagnostiqués avec un myélome multiple.
Johnson & Johnson hat beeindruckende klinische Studienergebnisse für DARZALEX FASPRO bei der Behandlung des multiplen Myeloms bekanntgegeben. Die Phase-3-Studie PERSEUS zeigte eine progressionsfreie Überlebensrate von 95,3 % nach 48 Monaten bei transplantationsfähigen Patienten, wobei über 55,8 % eine anhaltende MRD-Negativität von mehr als 24 Monaten mit einem DARZALEX FASPRO-basierten Regime (D-VRd) gefolgt von D-R-Erhaltung erreichten. Die Phase-3-Studie CEPHEUS bei transplantationsungeeigneten Patienten zeigte eine Gesamt-MRD-Negativität von 60,4 % und eine progressionsfreie Überlebensrate von 69 % nach 54 Monaten unter der D-VRd-Behandlung. Das Medikament zeigte signifikante Verbesserungen gegenüber Standardtherapien in mehreren Wirksamkeitsparametern bei gleichzeitig konstantem Sicherheitsprofil und positioniert DARZALEX FASPRO als eine Schlüsseltherapie für neu diagnostizierte Patienten mit multiplem Myelom.
Positive
  • 95.3% progression-free survival rate at 48 months in transplant-eligible patients
  • 55.8% of patients achieved sustained MRD negativity for 24+ months with D-VRd, more than double the control group (22.6%)
  • 60.4% overall MRD negativity rate in transplant-ineligible patients vs 39.3% with standard treatment
  • 69% progression-free survival at 54 months in transplant-ineligible patients vs 48% with standard treatment
  • Improved overall survival rates after censoring COVID-19-related deaths (HR 0.55)
Negative
  • None.

Insights

JNJ's DARZALEX FASPRO shows exceptional 95% 4-year progression-free survival with sustained deep responses in multiple myeloma patients.

The data presented from the Phase 3 PERSEUS trial represents a significant advancement in multiple myeloma treatment. The 95.3% progression-free survival at 48 months with DARZALEX FASPRO® quadruplet regimen is remarkably high for this disease. What's particularly noteworthy is the 55.8% rate of sustained MRD negativity at 10-5 for 24+ months—more than double the control group's 22.6%. This is clinically meaningful because sustained MRD negativity strongly correlates with long-term survival outcomes.

The CEPHEUS study further strengthens these findings by demonstrating similar benefits in transplant-ineligible patients, who typically have fewer treatment options and poorer outcomes. The 60.4% MRD negativity rate versus 39.3% in the control arm translates to a meaningful 69% progression-free survival at 54 months. This represents a hazard ratio of 0.51, indicating a 49% reduction in the risk of disease progression or death—a substantial clinical benefit.

The depth of response is particularly impressive, with high rates of MRD negativity at the more stringent 10-6 threshold (45.8% vs 26.9%). For hematologists, this level of disease clearance is associated with the most favorable long-term outcomes. The benefit appears consistent across both standard and high-risk cytogenetic profiles, addressing an important unmet need in multiple myeloma treatment.

These results position DARZALEX FASPRO® as a potential standard-of-care component in frontline multiple myeloma regimens regardless of transplant eligibility, which would significantly expand its clinical utility and market potential.

DARZALEX FASPRO's exceptional trial results strengthen JNJ's oncology portfolio with expanded indications and longer treatment duration potential.

These Phase 3 results significantly strengthen Johnson & Johnson's market position in multiple myeloma. DARZALEX FASPRO® is already a cornerstone therapy with $3.94 billion in global sales in 2024, but these findings could substantially expand its commercial potential through both broader adoption and longer treatment duration.

The PERSEUS data is particularly valuable as it supports DARZALEX FASPRO® use in both induction and maintenance settings for transplant-eligible patients. The investigational maintenance regimen (D-R) could extend the treatment duration by years per patient, potentially doubling the revenue per patient compared to current standard approaches.

The CEPHEUS study further expands the addressable market by demonstrating efficacy in transplant-ineligible patients—typically older individuals who represent approximately 70% of newly diagnosed cases. This population has historically had fewer treatment options, and the 54-month PFS of 69% positions DARZALEX FASPRO® as a potential standard of care.

Achieving MRD negativity at the 10-6 threshold is increasingly being recognized as a surrogate endpoint by regulators. These strong MRD data could support label expansions and strengthen J&J's position in payer negotiations. The consistent benefit across cytogenetic risk profiles further broadens the eligible patient population.

The subcutaneous formulation (FASPRO®) also offers significant advantages over the original intravenous DARZALEX®, including shorter administration time (3-5 minutes vs. several hours), reduced infusion reactions, and potential for eventual home administration—all factors that improve patient experience and market competitiveness against emerging therapies.

More than half of patients maintained minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity (10-5) with DARZALEX FASPRO® for 24 months or longer in the Phase 3 PERSEUS study

Data from Phase 3 CEPHEUS study show 60 percent overall MRD negativity (10−5) and improved PFS with DARZALEX FASPRO® in transplant-ineligible newly diagnosed patients

CHICAGO, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) today announced data from two studies highlighting that a DARZALEX FASPRO® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj)-based quadruplet regimen demonstrated deep and sustained minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity rates, and improved long-term progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM), regardless of transplant status.1,2,3 Findings were highlighted as oral presentations of an analysis of sustained MRD in transplant-eligible patients from the Phase 3 PERSEUS study (Abstract #7501) and a subgroup analysis of transplant-ineligible patients in the Phase 3 CEPHEUS study (Abstract #7516) at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting.

New analysis from the Phase 3 PERSEUS study shows the addition of DARZALEX FASPRO® to bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (D-VRd), followed by an investigational maintenance regimen of DARZALEX FASPRO® with lenalidomide (D-R), led to improved and deepened rates of overall and sustained MRD negativity (10-5), defined as no cancer cells detected within 100,000 bone marrow cells) for at least 24 months, compared to VRd induction and consolidation with R maintenance. More than half of patients who received the DARZALEX FASPRO®-based regimen achieved sustained MRD negativity for 24 or more months and more than two-thirds of patients achieved sustained MRD-negativity at 12-months, showing 95.3 percent PFS at 48-months (95 percent confidence interval [CI], 0.3-2.3)—reinforcing the ability of DARZALEX FASPRO® to delay disease progression or death.1 

"The data show that D-VRd followed by an investigational D-R maintenance regimen is a highly effective treatment option for transplant-eligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma," said Philippe Moreau*, M.D., head of the Hematology Department, University Hospital Hôtel-Dieu, Nantes, France and presenting author. "The depth and durability of MRD negativity observed—paired with unprecedented progression-free survival at four years—underscore the long-term benefit the DARZALEX FASPRO-based regimen can offer patients early in their treatment journey."

At a median follow-up of 47.5 months, 24-month sustained MRD negativity rates at the 10⁻⁵ sensitivity threshold were more than double with D-VRd followed by investigational D-R maintenance (55.8 percent), compared to VRd followed by R maintenance (22.6 percent) (odds ratio [OR]=4.36; 95 percent CI, 3.15-6.05; P<0.0001). Similarly, MRD negativity at 12 months was higher with D-VRd and D-R maintenance at 64.8 percent compared to VRd and R maintenance (29.7 percent) (OR=4.42, 95 percent CI, 3.22-6.08, P<0.0001).1 

Additional data from Phase 3 CEPHEUS study explore the benefits of DARZALEX FASPRO® in transplant-ineligible patients across cytogenetic risk status

The post-hoc analysis of the Phase 3 CEPHEUS study focused exclusively on transplant-ineligible patients, reinforcing that adding DARZALEX FASPRO® to VRd significantly deepens response and prolongs PFS compared to VRd alone, even in patients who are older and considered frail by the Myeloma Geriatric Assessment score.

At a median follow-up of 58.7 months, patients receiving D-VRd achieved markedly higher overall MRD negativity rates at the 10⁻⁵ sensitivity threshold with 60.4 percent versus 39.3 percent with VRd (OR 2.37; 95 percent CI, 1.47–3.80; P=0.0004). Furthermore, treatment with D-VRd resulted in high MRD-negativity rates at the 10⁻⁶ threshold (no cancer cells detected within 1,000,000 bone marrow cells) with 45.8 percent compared to 26.9 percent with VRd (OR 2.28; 95 percent CI, 1.40–3.73; P=0.0010). These deeper responses translated into improved long-term outcomes, with 69 percent of patients remaining progression free at 54-months when treated with D-VRd versus 48.0 percent with VRd (hazard ratio [HR] 0.51; 95 percent CI, 0.35–0.74). Overall survival (OS) numerically favored D-VRd (HR 0.66; 95 percent CI, 0.42–1.03), with an even greater benefit observed after censoring for COVID-19-related deaths (HR 0.55; 95 percent CI, 0.34–0.90).2

Additional data presented at ASCO included a subgroup analysis of the CEPHEUS trial for both transplant-ineligible and deferred NDMM patients who were considered high-risk for cytogenetic abnormalities (Abstract #7529). At a median follow-up of 58.7 months, overall MRD negativity rate was improved for patients with standard risk in D-VRd versus VRd. Rates by treatment arm in patients at high risk were comparable.3

"Across multiple studies, the growing body of data on DARZALEX-based regimens indicates impressive, deep responses and meaningful progression-free survival in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, including high risk," Jordan Schecter, MD, Vice President, Disease Area Leader, Multiple Myeloma, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine. "These consistent results across patient populations, regardless of transplant eligibility, reinforce the role of DARZALEX FASPRO as a cornerstone of frontline therapy."

In the PERSEUS and CEPHEUS studies, the safety profiles were consistent with the known safety profile for DARZALEX FASPRO®.

About the PERSEUS Study
The PERSEUS study is being conducted in collaboration with the European Myeloma Network as the sponsor. PERSEUS is an ongoing, randomized, open-label, Phase 3 study comparing the efficacy and safety of D-VRd during induction and consolidation versus VRd during induction and consolidation in patients with NDMM eligible for ASCT. Following consolidation, patients received an investigational treatment regimen for maintenance that included DARZALEX FASPRO® in combination with lenalidomide or lenalidomide alone. The trial was not designed to isolate the effect of DARZALEX FASPRO® in the maintenance phase of treatment. The efficacy of DARZALEX FASPRO® in combination with lenalidomide for maintenance has not been established. The primary endpoint is PFS, and secondary endpoints include overall CR or better rate, and overall MRD-negativity (in patients with CR or better). The median age is 61.0 (range, 32-70) years for patients in the D-VRd arm and 59.0 (range, 31-70) years for patients in the VRd arm.2 The study is being conducted in 14 countries in Europe and Australia.

About the CEPHEUS Study
CEPHEUS (NCT03652064) is an ongoing, multicenter, randomized, open-label, Phase 3 study comparing the efficacy and safety of D-VRd versus VRd in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who are transplant-ineligible or for whom transplant is not intended as initial therapy. Primary endpoint is overall MRD negativity rate at 10-5 sensitivity threshold. Secondary endpoints include CR or better rates, PFS, sustained MRD negativity rates for ≥12 months, MRD-negative rate at one year, overall response rates, time to and duration of response, PFS on next line of therapy, overall survival and safety. The trial has enrolled 396 patients in 13 countries.

About Multiple Myeloma 
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a blood cancer that affects a type of white blood cell called plasma cells, which are found in the bone marrow.4 In multiple myeloma, these malignant plasma cells proliferate and replace normal cells in the bone marrow.5 Multiple myeloma is the second most common blood cancer worldwide and remains an incurable disease.6 In 2024, it is estimated that more than 35,000 people will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma in the U.S. and more than 12,000 will die from the disease.7 People with multiple myeloma have a 5-year survival rate of 59.8 percent. While some people diagnosed with multiple myeloma initially have no symptoms, most patients are diagnosed due to symptoms that can include bone fracture or pain, low red blood cell counts, tiredness, high calcium levels, kidney problems or infections.8,9

About DARZALEX FASPRO® and DARZALEX®  
DARZALEX FASPRO® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) received U.S. FDA approval in May 2020 and is approved for nine indications in MM, four of which are for frontline treatment in newly diagnosed patients who are transplant-eligible or ineligible.3,6 It is the only subcutaneous CD38-directed antibody approved to treat patients with MM. DARZALEX FASPRO® is co-formulated with recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20, Halozyme's ENHANZE® drug delivery technology.  

DARZALEX® (daratumumab) received U.S. FDA approval in November 2015 and is approved in eight indications, three of which are in the frontline setting, including newly diagnosed patients who are transplant-eligible and ineligible.9  

DARZALEX® is the first CD38-directed antibody approved to treat MM.DARZALEX®-based regimens have been used in the treatment of more than 618,000 patients worldwide.

In August 2012, Janssen Biotech, Inc. and Genmab A/S entered a worldwide agreement, which granted Janssen an exclusive license to develop, manufacture and commercialize daratumumab.  

For more information, visit https://www.darzalexhcp.com.  

DARZALEX FASPRO® INDICATIONS AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION    

INDICATIONS
DARZALEX FASPRO® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with MM:  

  • In combination with bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone for induction and consolidation in newly diagnosed patients who are eligible for autologous stem cell transplant
  • In combination with bortezomib, melphalan, and prednisone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant
  • In combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant and in patients with relapsed or refractory MM who have received at least one prior therapy
  • In combination with bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are eligible for autologous stem cell transplant
  • In combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior line of therapy including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor (PI)
  • In combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed or refractory MM who have received one to three prior lines of therapy
  • In combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior therapy
  • As monotherapy in patients who have received at least three prior lines of therapy including a PI and an immunomodulatory agent or who are double refractory to a PI and an immunomodulatory agent

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION   

CONTRAINDICATIONS    
DARZALEX FASPRO® is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity to daratumumab, hyaluronidase, or any of the components of the formulation.     

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS     

Hypersensitivity and Other Administration Reactions    
Both systemic administration-related reactions, including severe or life-threatening reactions, and local injection-site reactions can occur with DARZALEX FASPRO®. Fatal reactions have been reported with daratumumab-containing products, including DARZALEX FASPRO®.    

Systemic Reactions    
In a pooled safety population of 1249 patients with MM (N=1056) or light chain (AL) amyloidosis (N=193) who received DARZALEX FASPRO® as monotherapy or in combination, 7 percent of patients experienced a systemic administration-related reaction (Grade 2: 3.2 percent, Grade 3: 0.7 percent, Grade 4: 0.1 percent). Systemic administration-related reactions occurred in 7 of patients with the first injection, 0.2 percent with the second injection, and cumulatively 1 percent with subsequent injections. The median time to onset was 2.9 hours (range: 5 minutes to 3.5 days). Of the 165 systemic administration-related reactions that occurred in 93 patients, 144 (87 percent) occurred on the day of DARZALEX FASPRO® administration. Delayed systemic administration-related reactions have occurred in 1 percent of the patients.  

Severe reactions included hypoxia, dyspnea, hypertension, tachycardia, and ocular adverse reactions, including choroidal effusion, acute myopia, and acute angle closure glaucoma. Other signs and symptoms of systemic administration-related reactions may include respiratory symptoms, such as bronchospasm, nasal congestion, cough, throat irritation, allergic rhinitis, and wheezing, as well as anaphylactic reaction, pyrexia, chest pain, pruritus, chills, vomiting, nausea, hypotension, and blurred vision.     

Pre-medicate patients with histamine-1 receptor antagonist, acetaminophen, and corticosteroids. Monitor patients for systemic administration-related reactions, especially following the first and second injections. For anaphylactic reaction or life-threatening (Grade 4) administration-related reactions, immediately and permanently discontinue DARZALEX FASPRO®. Consider administering corticosteroids and other medications after the administration of DARZALEX FASPRO® depending on dosing regimen and medical history to minimize the risk of delayed (defined as occurring the day after administration) systemic administration-related reactions.     

Ocular adverse reactions, including acute myopia and narrowing of the anterior chamber angle due to ciliochoroidal effusions with potential for increased intraocular pressure or glaucoma, have occurred with daratumumab-containing products. If ocular symptoms occur, interrupt DARZALEX FASPRO® and seek immediate ophthalmologic evaluation prior to restarting DARZALEX FASPRO®.     

Local Reactions    
In this pooled safety population, injection-site reactions occurred in 7 percent of patients, including Grade 2 reactions in 0.8 percent. The most frequent (>1 percent) injection-site reaction was injection-site erythema. These local reactions occurred a median of 5 minutes (range: 0 minutes to 6.5 days) after starting administration of DARZALEX FASPRO®. Monitor for local reactions and consider symptomatic management.     

Neutropenia    
Daratumumab may increase neutropenia induced by background therapy. Monitor complete blood cell counts periodically during treatment according to manufacturer's prescribing information for background therapies. Monitor patients with neutropenia for signs of infection. Consider withholding DARZALEX FASPRO® until recovery of neutrophils. In lower body weight patients receiving DARZALEX FASPRO®, higher rates of Grade 3-4 neutropenia were observed.     

Thrombocytopenia    
Daratumumab may increase thrombocytopenia induced by background therapy. Monitor complete blood cell counts periodically during treatment according to manufacturer's prescribing information for background therapies. Consider withholding DARZALEX FASPRO® until recovery of platelets.     

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity    
Based on the mechanism of action, DARZALEX FASPRO® can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. DARZALEX FASPRO® may cause depletion of fetal immune cells and decreased bone density. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females with reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with DARZALEX FASPRO® and for 3 months after the last dose.     

The combination of DARZALEX FASPRO® with lenalidomide, thalidomide, or pomalidomide is contraindicated in pregnant women because lenalidomide, thalidomide, and pomalidomide may cause birth defects and death of the unborn child. Refer to the lenalidomide, thalidomide, or pomalidomide prescribing information on use during pregnancy.     

Interference With Serological Testing    
Daratumumab binds to CD38 on red blood cells (RBCs) and results in a positive indirect antiglobulin test (indirect Coombs test). Daratumumab-mediated positive indirect antiglobulin test may persist for up to 6 months after the last daratumumab administration. Daratumumab bound to RBCs masks detection of antibodies to minor antigens in the patient's serum. The determination of a patient's ABO and Rh blood type are not impacted.     

Notify blood transfusion centers of this interference with serological testing and inform blood banks that a patient has received DARZALEX FASPRO®. Type and screen patients prior to starting DARZALEX FASPRO®.     

Interference With Determination of Complete Response    
Daratumumab is a human immunoglobulin G (IgG) kappa monoclonal antibody that can be detected on both the serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) and immunofixation (IFE) assays used for the clinical monitoring of endogenous M-protein. This interference can impact the determination of complete response and of disease progression in some DARZALEX FASPRO®-treated patients with IgG kappa myeloma protein.     

ADVERSE REACTIONS     

In MM, the most common adverse reaction (≥20 percent) with DARZALEX FASPRO® monotherapy is upper respiratory tract infection. The most common adverse reactions with combination therapy (≥20 percent for any combination) include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, dyspnea, insomnia, headache, pyrexia, cough, muscle spasms, back pain, vomiting, hypertension, upper respiratory tract infection, peripheral sensory neuropathy, constipation, pneumonia, and peripheral edema.     

The most common hematology laboratory abnormalities (≥40 percent) with DARZALEX FASPRO® are decreased leukocytes, decreased lymphocytes, decreased neutrophils, decreased platelets, and decreased hemoglobin.     

Please click here to see the full Prescribing Information for DARZALEX FASPRO®.     

DARZALEX® INDICATIONS AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION  

INDICATIONS   

DARZALEX® (daratumumab) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with MM:   

  • In combination with bortezomib, melphalan, and prednisone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant
  • In combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant and in patients with relapsed or refractory MM who have received at least one prior therapy
  • In combination with bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are eligible for autologous stem cell transplant
  • In combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior line of therapy including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor
  • In combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed or refractory MM who have received one to three prior lines of therapy
  • In combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior therapy
  • As monotherapy in patients who have received at least three prior lines of therapy including a proteasome inhibitor (PI) and an immunomodulatory agent or who are double-refractory to a PI and an immunomodulatory agent

CONTRAINDICATIONS  

DARZALEX® is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity (eg, anaphylactic reactions) to daratumumab or any of the components of the formulation.   

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS   

Infusion-Related Reactions   

DARZALEX® can cause severe and/or serious infusion-related reactions including anaphylactic reactions. These reactions can be life-threatening, and fatal outcomes have been reported. In clinical trials (monotherapy and combination: N=2066), infusion-related reactions occurred in 37 percent of patients with the Week 1 (16 mg/kg) infusion, 2 percent with the Week 2 infusion, and cumulatively 6 percent with subsequent infusions. Less than 1 percent of patients had a Grade 3/4 infusion-related reaction at Week 2 or subsequent infusions. The median time to onset was 1.5 hours (range: 0 to 73 hours). Nearly all reactions occurred during infusion or within 4 hours of completing DARZALEX®. Severe reactions have occurred, including bronchospasm, hypoxia, dyspnea, hypertension, tachycardia, headache, laryngeal edema, pulmonary edema, and ocular adverse reactions, including choroidal effusion, acute myopia, and acute angle closure glaucoma. Signs and symptoms may include respiratory symptoms, such as nasal congestion, cough, throat irritation, as well as chills, vomiting, and nausea. Less common signs and symptoms were wheezing, allergic rhinitis, pyrexia, chest discomfort, pruritus, hypotension and blurred vision.  

When DARZALEX® dosing was interrupted in the setting of ASCT (CASSIOPEIA) for a median of 3.75 months (range: 2.4 to 6.9 months), upon re-initiation of DARZALEX®, the incidence of infusion-related reactions was 11 percent for the first infusion following ASCT. Infusion-related reactions occurring at re-initiation of DARZALEX® following ASCT were consistent in terms of symptoms and severity (Grade 3 or 4: <1 percent) with those reported in previous studies at Week 2 or subsequent infusions. In EQUULEUS, patients receiving combination treatment (n=97) were administered the first 16 mg/kg dose at Week 1 split over two days, ie, 8 mg/kg on Day 1 and Day 2, respectively. The incidence of any grade infusion-related reactions was 42 percent, with 36 percent of patients experiencing infusion-related reactions on Day 1 of Week 1, 4 percent on Day 2 of Week 1, and 8 percent with subsequent infusions.  

Pre-medicate patients with antihistamines, antipyretics, and corticosteroids.  

Frequently monitor patients during the entire infusion. Interrupt DARZALEX® infusion for reactions of any severity and institute medical management as needed. Permanently discontinue DARZALEX® therapy if an anaphylactic reaction or life-threatening (Grade 4) reaction occurs and institute appropriate emergency care. For patients with Grade 1, 2, or 3 reactions, reduce the infusion rate when re-starting the infusion.  

To reduce the risk of delayed infusion-related reactions, administer oral corticosteroids to all patients following DARZALEX® infusions. Patients with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may require additional post-infusion medications to manage respiratory complications. Consider prescribing short- and long-acting bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.  

Ocular adverse reactions, including acute myopia and narrowing of the anterior chamber angle due to ciliochoroidal effusions with potential for increased intraocular pressure or glaucoma, have occurred with DARZALEX® infusion. If ocular symptoms occur, interrupt DARZALEX® infusion and seek immediate ophthalmologic evaluation prior to restarting DARZALEX®.  

Interference With Serological Testing   

Daratumumab binds to CD38 on red blood cells (RBCs) and results in a positive indirect antiglobulin test (indirect Coombs test). Daratumumab-mediated positive indirect antiglobulin test may persist for up to 6 months after the last daratumumab infusion. Daratumumab bound to RBCs masks detection of antibodies to minor antigens in the patient's serum. The determination of a patient's ABO and Rh blood type is not impacted. Notify blood transfusion centers of this interference with serological testing and inform blood banks that a patient has received DARZALEX®. Type and screen patients prior to starting DARZALEX®.  

Neutropenia and Thrombocytopenia   

DARZALEX® may increase neutropenia and thrombocytopenia induced by background therapy. Monitor complete blood cell counts periodically during treatment according to manufacturer's prescribing information for background therapies. Monitor patients with neutropenia for signs of infection. Consider withholding DARZALEX® until recovery of neutrophils or for recovery of platelets.  

Interference With Determination of Complete Response   

Daratumumab is a human immunoglobulin G (IgG) kappa monoclonal antibody that can be detected on both the serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) and immunofixation (IFE) assays used for the clinical monitoring of endogenous M-protein. This interference can impact the determination of complete response and of disease progression in some patients with IgG kappa myeloma protein.  

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity   

Based on the mechanism of action, DARZALEX® can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. DARZALEX® may cause depletion of fetal immune cells and decreased bone density. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females with reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with DARZALEX® and for 3 months after the last dose.  

The combination of DARZALEX® with lenalidomide, pomalidomide, or thalidomide is contraindicated in pregnant women because lenalidomide, pomalidomide, and thalidomide may cause birth defects and death of the unborn child. Refer to the lenalidomide, pomalidomide, or thalidomide prescribing information on use during pregnancy.  

ADVERSE REACTIONS   

The most frequently reported adverse reactions (incidence ≥20 percent) were: upper respiratory infection, neutropenia, infusion related reactions, thrombocytopenia, diarrhea, constipation, anemia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, fatigue, peripheral edema, nausea, cough, pyrexia, dyspnea, and asthenia. The most common hematologic laboratory abnormalities (≥40 percent) with DARZALEX® are: neutropenia, lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and anemia.  

Please click here to see the full Prescribing Information.  

About Johnson & Johnson 
At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at https://www.jnj.com/ or at www.innovativemedicine.jnj.com. Follow us at @JNJInnovMed. Janssen Research & Development, LLC and Janssen Biotech, Inc., and Janssen Global Services, LLC are Johnson & Johnson companies. 

Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding product development and the potential benefits and treatment impact of DARZALEX FASPRO®. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Johnson & Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: challenges and uncertainties inherent in product research and development, including the uncertainty of clinical success and of obtaining regulatory approvals; uncertainty of commercial success; manufacturing difficulties and delays; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges to patents; product efficacy or safety concerns resulting in product recalls or regulatory action; changes in behavior and spending patterns of purchasers of health care products and services; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson & Johnson's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, including in the sections captioned "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors," and in Johnson & Johnson's subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at http://www.sec.gov, http://www.jnj.com, or on request from Johnson & Johnson. Johnson & Johnson does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.

Source: Johnson & Johnson

* Philippe Moreau, M.D., head of the Hematology Department, University Hospital Hôtel-Dieu, Nantes, France, has provided consulting, advisory, and speaking services to Johnson & Johnson; he has not been paid for any media work.

_______________________________

1 Moreau, P., et al. Subcutaneous daratumumab (Dara) + bortezomib/lenalidomide/dexamethasone (VRd) with Dara + lenalidomide (DR) maintenance in transplant-eligible (TE) patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM): Analysis of sustained minimal residual disease negativity in the phase 3 PERSEUS trial. 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting. June 2025.

2 Facon, T., et al. Daratumumab plus bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (DVRd) in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM): subgroup analysis of transplant-ineligible (TIE) patients in the Phase 3 CEPHEUS study. 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting. June 2025.

3 Bahlis, N., et al. Daratumumab + bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (DVRd) vs VRd in transplant-ineligible (TIE)/transplant-deferred (TD) newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM): Phase 3 CEPHEUS trial cytogenetic subgroup analysis. 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting. June 2025.

4 Rajkumar SV. Multiple Myeloma: 2020 Update on Diagnosis, Risk-Stratification and Management. Am J Hematol. 2020;95(5):548-5672020;95(5):548-567. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32212178 

5 National Cancer Institute. Plasma Cell Neoplasms. Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/myeloma/patient/myeloma-treatment-pdq 

6 Multiple Myeloma. City of Hope, 2022. Multiple Myeloma: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments. Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma 

7 American Cancer Society. Myeloma Cancer Statistics. Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://cancerstatisticscenter.cancer.org/types/myeloma 

8 American Cancer Society. What is Multiple Myeloma? Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiple-myeloma/about/what-is-multiple-myeloma.html 

9 American Cancer Society. Multiple Myeloma Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging. Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/multiple-myeloma/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html 

 

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SOURCE Johnson & Johnson

FAQ

What are the key results of DARZALEX FASPRO in the PERSEUS trial for multiple myeloma?

In the PERSEUS trial, DARZALEX FASPRO showed 95.3% progression-free survival at 48 months, with 55.8% of patients achieving sustained MRD negativity for 24+ months, more than double the control group.

How effective is DARZALEX FASPRO in transplant-ineligible multiple myeloma patients?

The CEPHEUS study showed 60.4% overall MRD negativity and 69% progression-free survival at 54 months in transplant-ineligible patients, significantly better than standard treatment.

What is the survival benefit of DARZALEX FASPRO in multiple myeloma treatment?

DARZALEX FASPRO demonstrated 95.3% progression-free survival at 48 months in transplant-eligible patients and 69% at 54 months in transplant-ineligible patients, with improved overall survival rates.

How does DARZALEX FASPRO compare to standard treatment in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma?

DARZALEX FASPRO showed superior results with more than double the MRD negativity rates compared to standard treatment, and significantly better progression-free survival across both transplant-eligible and ineligible patients.

What is the safety profile of DARZALEX FASPRO in multiple myeloma treatment?

According to the PERSEUS and CEPHEUS studies, the safety profiles were consistent with the known safety profile for DARZALEX FASPRO, with no new safety concerns reported.
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