Expert Opinion on Multiple Myeloma Treatment in Brazil in the Bispecific Antibody Era.

Abstract

Multiple myeloma treatment has evolved rapidly with the development of novel targeted therapies. The paper outlines multiple myeloma epidemiology, current treatments, and recent advances, highlighting the role of bispecific antibodies. Brazilian authorities have approved 3 bispecific antibodies (teclistamab, elranatamab, and talquetamab) for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma patients who have received at least three prior therapies. These therapies have shown promising efficacy in clinical trials, with 61%-74% overall response rates. However, access to these treatments varies significantly between Brazil's private and public healthcare systems. A panel of 6 Brazilian experts in multiple myeloma and bispecific antibody therapy convened for a three-day virtual conference organized and moderated by Americas Health Foundation. They addressed key questions regarding bispecific antibody therapy in multiple myeloma and developed consensus recommendations. While bispecific antibodies offer new hope for multiple myeloma patients, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to these therapies. The paper discusses the sequencing of bispecific antibodies with other treatments, the management of adverse events, and the need for real-world data. It also highlights the disparities in multiple myeloma treatment between Brazil's public and private healthcare systems, emphasizing the need for targeted efforts to bridge this gap and improve outcomes for all multiple myeloma patients.