‘Trojan horse’ treatment for multiple myeloma recommended by NICE
A new NICE recommendation introduces a targeted ‘trojan horse’ therapy for multiple myeloma, offering a new option for patients whose cancer has returned after treatment.
Introduction
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended belantamab mafodotin as a new treatment option for people with multiple myeloma whose cancer has relapsed. The therapy, used in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone, provides a targeted approach designed to improve disease control and extend time before progression.
What is the ‘trojan horse’ treatment for multiple myeloma?
Belantamab mafodotin is a targeted therapy that works using a mechanism often described as a “trojan horse”. An antibody delivers a toxic drug directly into myeloma cells, allowing treatment to act precisely at the site of the cancer rather than affecting the whole body.
This approach differs from traditional treatments by focusing on targeted delivery, which may improve effectiveness for patients whose disease no longer responds to standard therapies.
Who is eligible for this treatment?
NICE recommends this treatment for adults with multiple myeloma who:
- Have previously received at least one line of treatment
- Have experienced disease relapse after earlier therapy
The updated recommendation broadens access, allowing more patients to benefit regardless of whether previous treatments included specific drugs such as lenalidomide.
Why this recommendation matters for patient care
Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer characterised by cycles of remission and relapse, often with significant physical and psychological impact.
Clinical evidence shows that belantamab mafodotin in combination therapy can extend the time before the disease worsens compared to commonly used treatments. Early data also suggests a potential improvement in overall survival, although long-term outcomes are still being studied.
The targeted mechanism makes it particularly valuable for patients who have limited options due to treatment resistance or intolerance.
Conclusion
NICE’s recommendation of belantamab mafodotin represents a significant step forward in the treatment of multiple myeloma. By using a targeted ‘trojan horse’ mechanism, the therapy offers a new option for patients with relapsed disease, helping to delay progression and expand available treatment pathways within the NHS.
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