Dr. Berenson on Carfilzomib for Multiple Myeloma

James R. Berenson, MD, Medical and Scientific Director, Institute for Myeloma & Bone Cancer Research (IMBCR), Chief Executive Officer, Oncotherapeutics, discussed multiple myeloma at the Chemotherapy Foundation Symposium at the Marriott Marquis in New York City on November 9, 2011.

His presentation touched on the new drug carfilzomib; a proteasome inhibitor. The drug was examined in phase 1 and 2 trials looking at patients who had or had not received the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (Velcade).

The carfilzomib trials demonstrated responses in refractory patients following progression with bortezomib. The trials demonstrated the highest recorded response in relapsed patients that had not previously received bortezomib.

The FDA is currently reviewing the application for carfilzomib and from his experience with the drug Berenson believes an approval will arrive in the spring of 2012.