Johnson & Johnson has announced the submission of regulatory applications to both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) seeking approval for new indications of Darzalex. The applications aim to expand the use of Darzalex Faspro in the U.S. and the subcutaneous formulation of Darzalex in the European Union.
The submissions are supported by data derived from the ongoing Phase 3 AQUILA study. This study investigates Darzalex Faspro as a monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients diagnosed with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma. Smoldering multiple myeloma represents an early, asymptomatic stage of the disease, and identifying high-risk patients is crucial for timely intervention.
The AQUILA study's findings suggest that Darzalex Faspro could offer a significant benefit in delaying the progression to active multiple myeloma in this high-risk population. The potential approval of Darzalex for this indication could address a critical unmet need, providing a proactive treatment strategy for patients who currently have limited options beyond observation.
Darzalex (daratumumab) is a CD38-directed monoclonal antibody that binds to the CD38 protein expressed on multiple myeloma cells. Darzalex Faspro is a subcutaneous formulation of daratumumab that also contains hyaluronidase, which helps to disperse and absorb daratumumab into the subcutaneous tissue. The subcutaneous formulation offers a more convenient administration route compared to the intravenous formulation.
Further details regarding the AQUILA study's efficacy and safety data are anticipated to be presented at upcoming medical conferences and publications. The FDA and EMA will now review the submitted data to determine the suitability of Darzalex Faspro and subcutaneous Darzalex for the treatment of high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma.
