Scotland approves new treatment option for multiple myeloma patients
Scotland's Scottish Medicines Consortium has approved GSK's Blenrep (belantamab mafodotin) in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone as a second-line treatment for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma patients. This decision, based on the DREAMM-7 study, is expected to benefit around 300 patients annually, showing significant improvements in progression-free survival and a 42% reduction in death risk. Healthcare professionals express optimism about the therapy's potential to enhance patient quality of life.
Eligible patients in Scotland with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma will now have access to a new treatment option following a decision by the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC).
The SMC has accepted GSK’s Blenrep (belantamab mafodotin) in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone (BVd) as a second line therapy for adults who have received at least one prior treatment and for whom lenalidomide is unsuitable.
This recommendation is expected to benefit around 300 patients annually across Scotland. The decision is based on phase 3 data from the DREAMM-7 study, which showed that BVd significantly improved median progression-free survival compared to the current standard of care, daratumumab with bortezomib and dexamethasone (DVd) – 36.6 months versus 13.4 months respectively.
The study also demonstrated a 42% reduction in the risk of death for patients treated with BVd.
Dr Jennifer Travers, Consultant Haematologist at The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre, said: “We are delighted that this therapy is now available in NHS Scotland as an option to treat patients living with myeloma.
“Access to belantamab mafodotin represents a major development for eligible patients, offering the potential to achieve sustained control of their myeloma and establish a quality of life which gives them a chance to focus on what is important to them.”
Antoine Herbaux, Vice President, Head of Oncology UK, GSK, explained: “We are proud to bring belantamab mafodotin to eligible patients in Scotland. Beyond the science, this milestone represents our commitment to working closely with the NHS and healthcare professionals in advancing patient care, and we hope that this new option will make a difference for patients and their families.”
