Investigational combination of first-in-class bispecifics TALVEY® and TECVAYLI® shows deep and durable responses in heavily pretreated multiple myeloma patients with extramedullary disease

Rhea-AI Summary

Johnson & Johnson announced promising results from Phase 2 RedirecTT-1 study evaluating the combination of TALVEY and TECVAYLI in multiple myeloma patients with extramedullary disease (EMD). The study showed a high overall response rate (ORR) of 78.9% in heavily pretreated patients, with 54.4% achieving complete response or better. The trial, involving 90 patients, demonstrated durable responses with 61% of patients progression-free at one year and 74.5% survival rate. The combination therapy showed efficacy even in patients previously treated with BCMA CAR-T therapy (83.3% ORR) or anti-FcRH5 bispecific antibodies (75% ORR). The safety profile aligned with previous monotherapy results, with manageable side effects and low discontinuation rates.

Positive

• High overall response rate of 78.9% in difficult-to-treat EMD patients, significantly better than standard therapy response rates of less than 40%
• Strong durability with 61% of patients progression-free at one year and 74.5% survival rate
• Effective even in heavily pretreated patients, including those who received prior BCMA CAR-T therapy
• Safety profile consistent with previous studies, with low discontinuation rates
• Over 4,900 patients treated worldwide with TALVEY since FDA approval

Negative

• 11.1% of patients (10 participants) experienced Grade 5 adverse events, with five due to infections
• Four participants discontinued TALVEY treatment due to adverse events
• Treatment requires management of potential side effects including CRS and ICANS

Insights

Oncology Researcher

JNJ's bispecific antibody combination shows promising 78.9% response rate in hard-to-treat multiple myeloma patients with extramedullary disease.

The Phase 2 RedirecTT-1 study results represent a significant advancement in treating extramedullary multiple myeloma (EMD), an aggressive form of the disease with historically poor outcomes. The 78.9 percent overall response rate for the TALVEY/TECVAYLI combination substantially outperforms the typical less than 40 percent response rates seen with current standard therapies in this population.

What makes these results particularly impressive is the durability of response - 66.2 percent of responders maintained their response at data cutoff with 13.4 months median follow-up. For context, EMD patients typically experience median progression-free survival of less than 6 months with existing treatments. The study showed 61 percent of patients remained progression-free at one year, with 74.5 percent alive at that milestone.

The dual-targeting mechanism represents an important scientific advancement. By simultaneously targeting both GPRC5D and BCMA receptors, this approach appears to overcome antigen escape mechanisms that often lead to relapse in multiple myeloma. This is evidenced by the strong responses even among patients previously treated with BCMA-directed CAR-T therapy (83.3 percent ORR) or anti-FcRH5 bispecifics (75 percent ORR).

The safety profile aligns with the individual agents' known profiles, with manageable cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity predominantly at low grades. The once-monthly dosing option could significantly improve treatment adherence and quality of life for these heavily pretreated patients.

Results from the Phase 2 RedirecTT-1 study demonstrate deep responses with 78.9 percent overall response rate through dual targeting of GPRC5D and BCMA

Data signal potential of novel, off-the-shelf approach in patients with extramedullary disease who face significant unmet needs

MILAN, June 15, 2025  /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) announced today new results from the Phase 2 RedirecTT-1 study evaluating the investigational combination of TALVEY^® (talquetamab-tgvs), the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved GPRC5D-directed bispecific antibody, and TECVAYLI^® (teclistamab-cqyv), the first FDA-approved BCMA-directed bispecific antibody. The results show a high overall response rate (ORR) with durability in patients with triple-class exposed (TCE) relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) who have true extramedullary disease (EMD). EMD is defined as soft tissue/organ-associated plasmacytomas with no contact to bony structures as per International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) criteria.¹ RedirecTT-1 is the largest study dedicated to patients with EMD to date. These data were featured in a late-breaking oral presentation (Abstract #LB4001) at the 2025 European Hematology Association (EHA) Congress.

EMD represents an aggressive form of multiple myeloma and occurs when myeloma cells spread and form tumors (plasmacytomas) elsewhere in the body, such as in soft tissues and organs. These patients often face limited treatment options and worse outcomes due to the complexity of the disease, including tumor heterogeneity, resulting in low ORRs and rapid relapses with current standard therapies. On average, TCE RRMM patients with EMD have an ORR of less than 40 percent and a median progression-free survival (PFS) of less than 6 months.²  

"The investigational combination of TALVEY and TECVAYLI has demonstrated deep, durable responses in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, and now shows great promise in those with extramedullary myeloma, where standard therapies often fall short," said Yael Cohen, M.D., Head of Myeloma Unit, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel.* "Dual targeting of GPRC5D and BCMA may lead to a higher ORR and greater depth of response by mitigating target antigen-related escape. The RedirecTT-1 trial shows the power of this novel dual-targeting combination approach as a potential treatment option for patients with this disease."

The Phase 2 RedirecTT-1 study enrolled 90 patients with TCE RRMM with true EMD. Of these patients, 84.4 percent were triple-class refractory, 35.6 percent were penta-drug refractory, 20 percent had previously received BCMA CAR-T therapy, and 8.9 percent had previously received a bispecific antibody.³ The investigational combination of TALVEY^® plus TECVAYLI^® led to a high ORR of 78.9 percent (95 percent confidence interval [CI]; 69.0–86.8), with more than half of patients (54.4 percent) achieving complete response or better.³ High responses were observed even in patients exposed to prior BCMA CAR-T or anti-FcRH5 bispecific antibodies (83.3 percent ORR; 58.6-96.4 and 75 percent ORR; 34.9-96.8, respectively).³ Among responders, 66.2 percent remained in response at the data cutoff, with a median follow-up of 13.4 months, signaling deep and durable responses.³ Treatment with the combination resulted in 61 percent of patients progression free and alive at one year.³ Additionally, the combination led to durable responses, with 64.1 percent of patients maintaining response (median duration of response: 13.8 months) and 74.5 percent of patients alive at one year, while median overall survival was not yet reached.³

"Patients with extramedullary myeloma, especially those who have exhausted prior therapies, need more effective treatment options," said Jordan Schecter, M.D., Vice President, Disease Area Leader, Multiple Myeloma, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine. "Our first-in-class bispecific antibodies TALVEY and TECVAYLI have transformed treatment for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. The RedirecTT-1 study underscores our commitment to advancing innovative therapies that attack the disease in different ways by building combinable and complementary regimens."

The safety profile of the combination was consistent with previous reports of TALVEY^® and TECVAYLI^® as monotherapies, with no new safety signals identified.³ Patients were given the option to switch to once a month dosing, potentially contributing to improved tolerability. Rates of discontinuation were low with the treatment combination of TALVEY^® and TECVAYLI^® due to adverse events (AEs).³ Four participants discontinued TALVEY^® only.³ Reports of CRS and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) were mostly low grade.³ Of the ten patients who had Grade 5 AEs (11.1 percent), five were due to infections and five were unrelated.³ The rates of severe infection were similar to those observed with BCMA bispecific antibody monotherapies.³

About TALVEY^®   

TALVEY^® (talquetamab-tgvs) received approval from the U.S. FDA in August 2023 as a first-in-class GPRC5D-targeting bispecific antibody for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least four prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and an anti-CD38 antibody.⁴ Since FDA approval, more than 4,900 patients have been treated worldwide with TALVEY^®. The European Commission (EC) granted conditional marketing authorization (CMA) of TALVEY^® ▼ (talquetamab) in August 2023 as monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) who have received at least three prior therapies, including an immunomodulatory agent, a proteasome inhibitor, and an anti-CD38 antibody and have demonstrated disease progression on the last therapy.⁵

TALVEY^® is a bispecific T-cell engaging antibody that binds to the CD3 receptor expressed on the surface of T-cells and G protein-coupled receptor class C group 5 member D (GPRC5D), a novel multiple myeloma target which is highly expressed on the surface of multiple myeloma cells and nonmalignant plasma cells, as well as some healthy tissues such as epithelial cells of the skin and tongue. 

About TECVAYLI^®
TECVAYLI^® (teclistamab-cqyv) received approval from the U.S. FDA in October 2022 as an off-the-shelf (or ready-to-use) antibody that is administered as a subcutaneous treatment for adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) who have received at least four prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent and an anti-CD38 antibody.[6] Since FDA approval, more than 15,900 patients have been treated worldwide with TECVAYLI^®. The European Commission (EC) granted TECVAYLI^® conditional marketing authorization (CMA) in August 2022 as monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with RRMM who have received at least three prior therapies, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent and an anti-CD38 antibody, and have demonstrated disease progression since the last therapy. In August 2023, the EC granted the approval of a Type II variation application for TECVAYLI^®, providing the option for a reduced dosing frequency of 1.5 mg/kg every two weeks (Q2W) in patients who have achieved a complete response (CR) or better for a minimum of six months. TECVAYLI^® is a first-in-class, bispecific T-cell engager antibody therapy that uses innovative science to activate the immune system by binding to the CD3 receptor expressed on the surface of T-cells and to the B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) expressed on the surface of multiple myeloma cells and some healthy B-lineage cells. In February 2024, the U.S. FDA approved the supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) for TECVAYLI^® for a reduced dosing frequency of 1.5 mg/kg every two weeks in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have achieved and maintained a CR or better for a minimum of six months. 

For more information, visit www.TECVAYLI.com. 

About multiple myeloma 
Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer that affects a type of white blood cell called plasma cells, which are found in the bone marrow.⁷ In multiple myeloma, these plasma cells proliferate and spread rapidly and replace normal cells in the bone marrow with tumors.⁸ Multiple myeloma is the third most common blood cancer worldwide and remains an incurable disease.⁹ In 2024, it was estimated that more than 35,000 people will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma in the U.S., and more than 12,000 people would die from the disease.¹⁰ People living with multiple myeloma have a 5-year survival rate of 59.8 percent.[11] 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 and kidney problems or infections.^12,13

TALVEY^® IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION 

INDICATION AND USAGE 

TALVEY^® (talquetamab-tgvs) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least four prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. 

This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial(s). 

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION 

WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME and NEUROLOGIC TOXICITY, including IMMUNE EFFECTOR CELL-ASSOCIATED NEUROTOXICITY SYNDROME 

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS), including life-threatening or fatal reactions, can occur in patients receiving TALVEY^®. Initiate TALVEY^® treatment with step-up dosing to reduce the risk of CRS. Withhold TALVEY^® until CRS resolves or permanently discontinue based on severity. 

Neurologic toxicity, including immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS), and serious and life-threatening or fatal reactions, can occur with TALVEY®. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicity including ICANS during treatment and treat promptly. Withhold or permanently discontinue TALVEY^® based on severity. 

Because of the risk of CRS and neurologic toxicity, including ICANS, TALVEY^® is available only through a restricted program called the TECVAYLI^® and TALVEY^® Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS).  

CONTRAINDICATIONS: None. 

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS 

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): TALVEY^® can cause cytokine release syndrome, including life-threatening or fatal reactions. In the clinical trial, CRS occurred in 76% of patients who received TALVEY^® at the recommended dosages, with Grade 1 CRS occurring in 57% of patients, Grade 2 in 17%, and Grade 3 in 1.5%. Recurrent CRS occurred in 30% of patients. Most events occurred following step-up dose 1 (29%) or step-up dose 2(44%) at the recommended dosages. CRS occurred in 33% of patients with step-up dose 3 in the biweekly dosing schedule (N=153). CRS occurred in 30% of patients with the first 0.4 mg/kg treatment dose and in 12% of patients treated with the first 0.8 mg/kg treatment dose. The CRS rate for both dosing schedules combined was less than 3% for each of the remaining doses in Cycle 1 and less than 3% cumulatively from Cycle 2 onward. The median time to onset of CRS was 27 (range: 0.1 to 167) hours from the last dose, and the median duration was 17 (range: 0 to 622) hours. Clinical signs and symptoms of CRS include but are not limited to pyrexia, hypotension, chills, hypoxia, headache, and tachycardia. Potentially life-threatening complications of CRS may include cardiac dysfunction, acute respiratory distress syndrome, neurologic toxicity, renal and/or hepatic failure, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). 

Initiate therapy with step-up dosing and administer pre-treatment medications (corticosteroids, antihistamine, and antipyretics) prior to each dose of TALVEY^® in the step-up dosing schedule to reduce the risk of CRS. Monitor patients following administration accordingly. In patients who experience CRS, pre-treatment medications should be administered prior to the next TALVEY^® dose. 

Counsel patients to seek medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS occur. At the first sign of CRS, immediately evaluate patient for hospitalization and institute treatment with supportive care based on severity, and consider further management per current practice guidelines. Withhold TALVEY^® until CRS resolves or permanently discontinue based on severity. 

Neurologic Toxicity including ICANS: TALVEY^® can cause serious, or life-threatening neurologic toxicity or fatal neurologic toxicity including immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS), including fatal reactions. In the clinical trial, neurologic toxicity, including ICANS, occurred in 55% of patients who received the recommended dosages, with Grade 3 or 4 neurologic toxicity occurring in 6% of patients. The most frequent neurologic toxicities were headache (20%), encephalopathy (15%), sensory neuropathy (14%), and motor dysfunction (10%). 

ICANS was reported in 9% of 265 patients where ICANS was collected and who received the recommended dosages. Recurrent ICANS occurred in 3% of patients. Most patients experienced ICANS following step-up dose 1 (3%), step-up dose 2 (3%), step-up dose 3 of the biweekly dosing schedule (1.8%), or the initial treatment dose of the weekly dosing schedule (2.6%) (N=156) or the biweekly dosing schedule (3.7%) (N=109). The median time to onset of ICANS was 2.5 (range: 1 to 16) days after the most recent dose with a median duration of 2 (range: 1 to 22) days. The onset of ICANS can be concurrent with CRS, following resolution of CRS, or in the absence of CRS. Clinical signs and symptoms of ICANS may include but are not limited to confusional state, depressed level of consciousness, disorientation, somnolence, lethargy, and bradyphrenia. 

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicity during treatment and treat promptly. At the first sign of neurologic toxicity, including ICANS, immediately evaluate the patient and provide supportive care based on severity. Withhold or permanently discontinue TALVEY^® based on severity and consider further management per current practice guidelines [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]. 

Due to the potential for neurologic toxicity, patients receiving TALVEY^® are at risk of depressed level of consciousness. Advise patients to refrain from driving or operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery during the step-up dosing schedule and for 48 hours after completion of the step-up dosing schedule, and in the event of new onset of any neurological symptoms, until symptoms resolve. 

TECVAYLI^® and TALVEY^® REMS: TALVEY^® is available only through a restricted program under a REMS, called the TECVAYLI^® and TALVEY^® REMS because of the risks of CRS and neurologic toxicity, including ICANS. 

Further information about the TECVAYLI^® and TALVEY^® REMS program is available at www.TEC-TALREMS.com or by telephone at 1-855-810-8064. 

Oral Toxicity and Weight Loss: TALVEY^® can cause oral toxicities, including dysgeusia, dry mouth, dysphagia, and stomatitis. In the clinical trial, 80% of patients had oral toxicity, with Grade 3 occurring in 2.1% of patients who received the recommended dosages. The most frequent oral toxicities were dysgeusia (49%), dry mouth (34%), dysphagia (23%), and ageusia (18%). The median time to onset of oral toxicity was 15 (range: 1 to 634) days, and the median time to resolution to baseline was 43 (1 to 530) days. Oral toxicity did not resolve to baseline in 65% of patients. 

TALVEY^® can cause weight loss. In the clinical trial, 62% of patients experienced weight loss, regardless of having an oral toxicity, including 29% of patients with Grade 2 (10% or greater) weight loss and 2.7% of patients with Grade 3 (20% or greater) weight loss. The median time to onset of Grade 2 or higher weight loss was 67 (range: 6 to 407) days, and the median time to resolution was 50 (range: 1 to 403) days. Weight loss did not resolve in 57% of patients who reported weight loss. 

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of oral toxicity. Counsel patients to seek medical attention should signs or symptoms of oral toxicity occur and provide supportive care as per current clinical practice, including consultation with a nutritionist. Monitor weight regularly during therapy. Evaluate clinically significant weight loss further. Withhold TALVEY^® or permanently discontinue based on severity. 

Infections: TALVEY^® can cause infections, including life-threatening or fatal infections. Serious infections occurred in 16% of patients, with fatal infections in 1.5% of patients. Grade 3 or 4 infections occurred in 17% of patients. The most common serious infections reported were bacterial infection (8%), which included sepsis and COVID-19 (2.7%). 

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection prior to and during treatment with TALVEY^® and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic antimicrobials according to local guidelines. Withhold or consider permanent discontinuation of TALVEY^® as recommended, based on severity. 

Cytopenias: TALVEY^® can cause cytopenias, including neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. In the clinical trial, Grade 3 or 4 decreased neutrophils occurred in 35% of patients, and Grade 3 or 4 decreased platelets occurred in 22% of patients who received TALVEY^®. The median time to onset for Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was 22 (range: 1 to 312) days, and the median time to resolution to Grade 2 or lower was 8 (range: 1 to 79) days. The median time to onset for Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was 12 (range: 2 to 183) days, and the median time to resolution to Grade 2 or lower was 10 (range: 1 to 64) days. Monitor complete blood counts during treatment and withhold TALVEY^® as recommended, based on severity. 

Skin Toxicity: TALVEY^® can cause serious skin reactions, including rash, maculo-papular rash, erythema, and erythematous rash. In the clinical trial, skin reactions occurred in 62% of patients, with Grade 3 skin reactions in 0.3%. The median time to onset was 25 (range: 1 to 630) days. The median time to improvement to Grade 1 or less was 33 days. 

Monitor for skin toxicity, including rash progression. Consider early intervention and treatment to manage skin toxicity.  Withhold TALVEY^® as recommended based on severity. 

Hepatotoxicity: TALVEY^® can cause hepatotoxicity. Elevated ALT occurred in 33% of patients, with Grade 3 or 4 ALT elevation occurring in 2.7%; elevated AST occurred in 31% of patients, with Grade 3 or 4 AST elevation occurring in 3.3%. Grade 3 or 4 elevations of total bilirubin occurred in 0.3% of patients. Liver enzyme elevation can occur with or without concurrent CRS. 

Monitor liver enzymes and bilirubin at baseline and during treatment as clinically indicated. Withhold TALVEY^® or consider permanent discontinuation of TALVEY^®, based on severity [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]. 

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Based on its mechanism of action, TALVEY^® may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with TALVEY^® and for 3 months after the last dose. 

Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) are pyrexia, CRS, dysgeusia, nail disorder, musculoskeletal pain, skin disorder, rash, fatigue, weight decreased, dry mouth, xerosis, dysphagia, upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, hypotension, and headache. 

The most common Grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities (≥30%) are lymphocyte count decreased, neutrophil count decreased, white blood cell decreased, and hemoglobin decreased. 

Please read full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING, for TALVEY^®. 

TECVAYLI^® IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION  

WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME and NEUROLOGIC TOXICITY including IMMUNE EFFECTOR CELL-ASSOCIATED NEUROTOXICITY SYNDROME 

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS), including life-threatening or fatal reactions, can occur in patients receiving TECVAYLI^®. Initiate treatment with TECVAYLI^® step-up dosing schedule to reduce risk of CRS. Withhold TECVAYLI^® until CRS resolves or permanently discontinue based on severity. 

Neurologic toxicity, including Immune Effector Cell-Associated Neurotoxicity Syndrome (ICANS) and serious and life-threatening reactions, can occur in patients receiving TECVAYLI^®. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicity, including ICANS, during treatment. Withhold TECVAYLI^® until neurologic toxicity resolves or permanently discontinue based on severity. 

TECVAYLI^® is available only through a restricted program called the TECVAYLI^® and TALVEY^® Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS). 

INDICATION AND USAGE
TECVAYLI^® (teclistamab-cqyv) is a bispecific B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed CD3 T-cell engager indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least four prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. 

This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on response rate. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trial(s). 

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS 

Cytokine Release Syndrome - TECVAYLI^® can cause cytokine release syndrome (CRS), including life-threatening or fatal reactions. In the clinical trial, CRS occurred in 72% of patients who received TECVAYLI^® at the recommended dose, with Grade 1 CRS occurring in 50% of patients, Grade 2 in 21%, and Grade 3 in 0.6%. Recurrent CRS occurred in 33% of patients. Most patients experienced CRS following step-up dose 1 (42%), step-up dose 2 (35%), or the initial treatment dose (24%). Less than 3% of patients developed first occurrence of CRS following subsequent doses of TECVAYLI^®. The median time to onset of CRS was 2 (range: 1 to 6) days after the most recent dose with a median duration of 2 (range: 1 to 9) days. Clinical signs and symptoms of CRS included, but were not limited to, fever, hypoxia, chills, hypotension, sinus tachycardia, headache, and elevated liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase elevation). 

Initiate therapy according to TECVAYLI^® step-up dosing schedule to reduce risk of CRS. Administer pretreatment medications to reduce risk of CRS and monitor patients following administration of TECVAYLI^® accordingly. At the first sign of CRS, immediately evaluate patient for hospitalization. Administer supportive care based on severity and consider further management per current practice guidelines. Withhold or permanently discontinue TECVAYLI^® based on severity. 

TECVAYLI^® is available only through a restricted program under a REMS. 

Neurologic Toxicity including ICANS - TECVAYLI^® can cause serious or life-threatening neurologic toxicity, including Immune Effector Cell-Associated Neurotoxicity Syndrome (ICANS). 

In the clinical trial, neurologic toxicity occurred in 57% of patients who received TECVAYLI^® at the recommended dose, with Grade 3 or 4 neurologic toxicity occurring in 2.4% of patients. The most frequent neurologic toxicities were headache (25%), motor dysfunction (16%), sensory neuropathy (15%), and encephalopathy (13%). With longer follow-up, Grade 4 seizure and fatal Guillain-Barré syndrome (one patient each) occurred in patients who received TECVAYLI^®. 

In the clinical trial, ICANS was reported in 6% of patients who received TECVAYLI^® at the recommended dose. Recurrent ICANS occurred in 1.8% of patients. Most patients experienced ICANS following step-up dose 1 (1.2%), step-up dose 2 (0.6%), or the initial treatment dose (1.8%). Less than 3% of patients developed first occurrence of ICANS following subsequent doses of TECVAYLI^®. The median time to onset of ICANS was 4 (range: 2 to 8) days after the most recent dose with a median duration of 3 (range: 1 to 20) days. The most frequent clinical manifestations of ICANS reported were confusional state and dysgraphia. The onset of ICANS can be concurrent with CRS, following resolution of CRS, or in the absence of CRS. 

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicity during treatment. At the first sign of neurologic toxicity, including ICANS, immediately evaluate patient and provide supportive therapy based on severity. Withhold or permanently discontinue TECVAYLI^® based on severity per recommendations and consider further management per current practice guidelines. 

Due to the potential for neurologic toxicity, patients are at risk of depressed level of consciousness. Advise patients to refrain from driving or operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery during and for 48 hours after completion of TECVAYLI^® step-up dosing schedule and in the event of new onset of any neurologic toxicity symptoms until neurologic toxicity resolves. 

TECVAYLI^® is available only through a restricted program under a REMS. 

TECVAYLI^® and TALVEY^® REMS - TECVAYLI^® is available only through a restricted program under a REMS called the TECVAYLI^® and TALVEY^® REMS because of the risks of CRS and neurologic toxicity, including ICANS. 

Hepatotoxicity - TECVAYLI^® can cause hepatotoxicity, including fatalities. In patients who received TECVAYLI^® at the recommended dose in the clinical trial, there was one fatal case of hepatic failure. Elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) occurred in 34% of patients, with Grade 3 or 4 elevations in 1.2%. Elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) occurred in 28% of patients, with Grade 3 or 4 elevations in 1.8%. Elevated total bilirubin occurred in 6% of patients with Grade 3 or 4 elevations in 0.6%. Liver enzyme elevation can occur with or without concurrent CRS. 

Monitor liver enzymes and bilirubin at baseline and during treatment as clinically indicated. Withhold TECVAYLI^® or consider permanent discontinuation of TECVAYLI^® based on severity. 

Infections - TECVAYLI^® can cause severe, life-threatening, or fatal infections. In patients who received TECVAYLI^® at the recommended dose in the clinical trial, serious infections, including opportunistic infections, occurred in 30% of patients, with Grade 3 or 4 infections in 35%, and fatal infections in 4.2%. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection prior to and during treatment with TECVAYLI^® and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic antimicrobials according to guidelines. Withhold TECVAYLI^® or consider permanent discontinuation of TECVAYLI^® based on severity. 

Monitor immunoglobulin levels during treatment with TECVAYLI^® and treat according to guidelines, including infection precautions and antibiotic or antiviral prophylaxis. 

Neutropenia - TECVAYLI^® can cause neutropenia and febrile neutropenia. In patients who received TECVAYLI^® at the recommended dose in the clinical trial, decreased neutrophils occurred in 84% of patients, with Grade 3 or 4 decreased neutrophils in 56%. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 3% of patients. 

Monitor complete blood cell counts at baseline and periodically during treatment and provide supportive care per local institutional guidelines. Monitor patients with neutropenia for signs of infection. Withhold TECVAYLI^® based on severity. 

Hypersensitivity and Other Administration Reactions - TECVAYLI^® can cause both systemic administration-related and local injection-site reactions. Systemic Reactions - In patients who received TECVAYLI^® at the recommended dose in the clinical trial, 1.2% of patients experienced systemic-administration reactions, which included Grade 1 recurrent pyrexia and Grade 1 swollen tongue. Local Reactions - In patients who received TECVAYLI^® at the recommended dose in the clinical trial, injection-site reactions occurred in 35% of patients, with Grade 1 injection-site reactions in 30% and Grade 2 in 4.8%. Withhold TECVAYLI^® or consider permanent discontinuation of TECVAYLI^® based on severity. 

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity - Based on its mechanism of action, TECVAYLI^® may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with TECVAYLI^® and for 5 months after the last dose. 

ADVERSE REACTIONS
The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were pyrexia, CRS, musculoskeletal pain, injection site reaction, fatigue, upper respiratory tract infection, nausea, headache, pneumonia, and diarrhea. The most common Grade 3 to 4 laboratory abnormalities (≥20%) were decreased lymphocytes, decreased neutrophils, decreased white blood cells, decreased hemoglobin, and decreased platelets. 

Please read full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING, for TECVAYLI^®.  

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, Janssen Biotech, Inc., Janssen Global Services, LLC and Janssen Scientific Affairs, 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 TALVEY^® (talquetamab-tgvs) and TECVAYLI^® (teclistamab-cqyv). 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 www.sec.gov, 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 

^*Yael Cohen, M.D., Head of Myeloma Unit, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv, Israel, has provided consulting, advisory, and speaking services to Johnson & Johnson; she has not been paid for any media work.

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¹ Ho, M.; Paruzzo, L.; Minehart, J.; Nabar, N.; Noll, J.H.; Luo, T.; Garfall, A.; Zanwar, S. Extramedullary Multiple Myeloma: Challenges and Opportunities. Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32, 182. https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32030182
² Philippe Moreau et al, Outcomes of Patients With Extramedullary Disease in Triple-Class Exposed Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma From the Pooled LocoMMotion and MoMMent Studies, Clinical Lymphoma, Myeloma and Leukemia, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clml.2025.03.
³ Kumar, S., et al. Phase 2 Study of Talquetamab + Teclistamab in Patients With Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma and Extramedullary Disease: RedirecTT-1. 2025 European Hematology Association Congress. June 2025.
⁴ TALVEY^® U.S. Prescribing Information, August 2023.
⁵ European Medicines Agency. TALVEY Summary of Product Characteristics. August 2023.
⁶ U.S. FDA Approves TECVAYLI^® (teclistamab-cqyv), the First Bispecific T-cell Engager Antibody for the Treatment of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma. https://www.jnj.com/u-s-fda-approves-tecvayli-teclistamab-cqyv-the-first-bispecific-t-cell-engager-antibody-for-the-treatment-of-patients-with-relapsed-or-refractory-multiple-myeloma. Accessed May 2025.
⁷ 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
⁸ National Cancer Institute. Plasma Cell Neoplasms. https://www.cancer.gov/types/myeloma/patient/myeloma-treatment-pdq. Accessed November 2024.
⁹ City of Hope. Multiple Myeloma: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments. https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma. Accessed November 2024.
¹⁰ American Cancer Society. Key Statistics About Multiple Myeloma. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiple-myeloma/about/key-statistics.html#:~:text=Multiple%20myeloma%20is%20a%20relatively,men%20and%2015%2C370%20in%20women. Accessed November 2024.
¹¹ SEER Explorer: An interactive website for SEER cancer statistics [Internet]. Surveillance Research Program, National Cancer Institute. https://seer.cancer.gov/explorer/. Accessed November 2024.
¹² American Cancer Society. What is Multiple Myeloma? https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiple-myeloma/about/what-is-multiple-myeloma.html. Accessed November 2024.
¹³  American Cancer Society. Multiple Myeloma Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/multiple-myeloma/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html. Accessed November 2024.

Media contact:  Oncology Media Relations  Oncology_media_relations@its.jnj.com

Investor contact:  Lauren Johnson   investor-relations@its.jnj.com    U.S. medical inquiries:  +1 800 526-7736

 

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SOURCE Johnson & Johnson

FAQ

What are the response rates for JNJ's TALVEY and TECVAYLI combination in multiple myeloma patients?

The combination showed a 78.9% overall response rate, with 54.4% of patients achieving complete response or better in the Phase 2 RedirecTT-1 study.

How effective is the JNJ combination therapy in patients previously treated with BCMA CAR-T?

The combination showed an 83.3% overall response rate in patients previously treated with BCMA CAR-T therapy.

What is the survival rate for patients treated with JNJ's TALVEY and TECVAYLI combination?

74.5% of patients were alive at one year, with 61% remaining progression-free during this period.

What are the main side effects of JNJ's TALVEY and TECVAYLI combination therapy?

Main side effects include CRS and ICANS (mostly low grade), with 11.1% experiencing Grade 5 adverse events, including infections.

How many patients have been treated with TALVEY since FDA approval?

More than 4,900 patients worldwide have been treated with TALVEY since its FDA approval in August 2023.