Carfilzomib: a novel agent for multiple myeloma

Objectives Carfilzomib is a new agent for the treatment of relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (MM). This article presents a comprehensive overview of the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, dosing schedule, safety, efficacy, preparation and administration of carfilzomib, and its role in treating MM patients. Key findings Carfilzomib is a selective proteasome inhibitor that differs structurally and mechanistically from bortezomib. In patients' whole-blood and peripheral-blood mononuclear cells, carfilzomib inhibited proteasomal and immunoproteasomal activity by 70-80%. Approved carfilzomib dosing is based on body surface area, and is given on days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 of a 28-day cycle (20mg/m(2) in cycle 1; 27mg/m(2) in cycle 2+). Premedication with dexamethasone and adequate hydration are recommended to reduce the risk of adverse events. The median t(1/2) of carfilzomib is short (0.29-0.48h), with no accumulation detected between doses. In clinical studies in relapsed and refractory MM and in combinations in newly diagnosed MM, single-agent carfilzomib demonstrated significant durable activity, good tolerability and a favourable safety profile, supporting its extended use. Conclusions Carfilzomib represents an important addition to the treatment armamentarium for patients with relapsed and/or refractory MM, and studies are underway evaluating the role of single-agent carfilzomib in additional clinical settings as well as in different combinations.