Multiple myeloma: novel approaches for relapsed disease

Abstract

Therapeutic options for patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are rapidly changing. The emergence of 2 highly active novel agents, bortezomib and lenalidomide, have dramatically changed the landscape of treatment options and have improved outcomes for many of our patients. Combinations of conventional agents with novel agents have also demonstrated significant efficacy for patients with newly diagnosed and relapsed myeloma. Among the conventional agents that are being explored is the bifunctional alkylator agent bendamustine, which has demonstrated single-agent activity and activity with novel agents. This review summarizes emerging data on novel agents, alkylating agents, and their combinations in the setting of newly diagnosed and relapsed MM.