Immunomodulatory compounds (IMiDs) in the treatment of multiple myeloma.
The design of innovative, more effective, less toxic therapy of multiple myeloma (MM) is emerging in parallel to a better understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of this common hematologic malignancy. Thalidomide has changed the treatment paradigm of patients with MM. Its efficacy, however, has been compromised by significant side effects. IMiDs (immunodulatory compounds) are structural and functional analogs of thalidomide that were specifically designed to create new agents with enhanced immunomodulatory and anticancer properties and better tolerability profiles. In this article, we review the clinical trial development of the second-generation IMiDs, lenalidomide and pomalidomide. Both agents demonstrate potent activity and are highly effective and well tolerated treatment options for patients with MM.
Srkalovic
Gordan
G
Sparrow Cancer Center, Sparrow Health System and Department of Medicine, College of Human Medicine at Michigan State University, MI, USA.
Hussein
Mohamad
M
D017326:Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic; D006801:Humans; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000077269:Lenalidomide; D009101:Multiple Myeloma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013792:Thalidomide / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use
D007155:Immunologic Factors; D013792:Thalidomide; C467566:pomalidomide; D000077269:Lenalidomide