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A systematic review of phase II trials of thalidomide/dexamethasone combination therapy in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
Author(s) -
Von LilienfeldToal Marie,
HahnAst Corinna,
Furkert Kerstin,
Hoffmann Florian,
Naumann Ralph,
Bargou Ralf,
Cook Gordon,
Glasmacher Axel
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
european journal of haematology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.904
H-Index - 84
eISSN - 1600-0609
pISSN - 0902-4441
DOI - 10.1111/j.1600-0609.2008.01121.x
Subject(s) - thalidomide , medicine , refractory (planetary science) , dexamethasone , adverse effect , gastroenterology , multiple myeloma , combination therapy , toxicity , peripheral neuropathy , oncology , surgery , endocrinology , physics , astrobiology , diabetes mellitus
Thalidomide monotherapy in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM) has a response rate of 30%. The combination of thalidomide with dexamethasone (Thal/Dex) is expected to improve responses, but it is unknown if the combination increases the rate of adverse events. Here, we conducted a systematic review of studies evaluating Thal/Dex in relapsed/refractory MM. Twelve studies were included, comprising 451 patients. The response rate (CR and PR) was 46% (95% CI 42–51%). Therapy‐related toxicity was comparable to thalidomide monotherapy and included somnolence (26%, 95% CI 22–31%), constipation (37%, 95% CI 32–42%) and peripheral neuropathy (27%, 95% CI 23–32%). Only venous thromboembolism appeared to occur more often with Thal/Dex (5%, 95% CI 3–8%). Thus, using Thal/Dex results in an improved response rate in relapsed/refractory MM, with a toxicity rate comparable to thalidomide monotherapy.