Common Therapies and Symptoms Explained
Myeloma is a type of cancer that starts in the plasma cells of the bone marrow. It can affect many parts of the body, including the bones and the immune system. There are several treatment options available for people with myeloma. In this article, we explore ten myeloma treatment options and list common symptoms to watch for if you or someone you care about might have myeloma.
Treatment Options for Myeloma
1. Sarclisa
Sarclisa (Isatuximab) is a medicine that belongs to a group called monoclonal antibodies. It works by attaching to the myeloma cells and helping the immune system fight them. Sarclisa is usually given to patients who have already tried other treatments. It is often used in combination with other drugs to improve how well it works.
2. Pomalyst
Pomalyst (Pomalidomide) is an immunomodulatory drug. This means it helps the immune system work better against myeloma cells. It is low in toxicity compared to some other drugs and is typically used when other treatments are not effective. Pomalyst can slow down the growth of myeloma cells and help control the spread of the disease.
3. Kyprolis
Kyprolis (Carfilzomib) is a proteasome inhibitor. Proteasomes are parts of the cell that help break down proteins. By blocking these proteasomes, Kyprolis causes a buildup of proteins in the myeloma cells, which leads to their death. Kyprolis is given through an IV (intravenous infusion) and is used for patients who have already received other types of therapy.
4. CAR-T Cell Therapy
CAR-T cell therapy is a newer treatment that uses a patient's own immune cells to fight cancer. In this treatment, cells are taken from the patient and modified in a lab to better detect and attack myeloma cells. Once the cells are changed, they are put back into the patient’s body. This treatment can be very effective, but it may also come with serious side effects that need careful monitoring in a hospital setting.
5. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy involves using drugs that focus on the specific features of myeloma cells. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted drugs aim mostly at the cancer cells. This treatment can have fewer side effects compared to other treatments while still working to stop the growth of myeloma cells.
6. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body’s natural immune system fight cancer. It uses special drugs that boost the immune system’s ability to recognize and kill cancer cells. Some immunotherapy drugs are designed to block signals that stop the immune cells from attacking myeloma cells. This treatment can be used along with other treatments to improve the overall response to therapy.
7. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells. In myeloma treatment, chemotherapy drugs often work by stopping cell division, which makes it harder for cancer cells to grow and spread. Chemotherapy may be used on its own or in combination with other treatments. Because chemotherapy can affect healthy cells too, it can cause side effects like hair loss and nausea.
8. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are drugs that reduce inflammation and help boost the effectiveness of other myeloma treatments like chemotherapy. They work by lowering the immune system’s activity and reducing swelling and pain. Corticosteroids can help control symptoms of myeloma and are usually taken as pills or through injections. They may cause side effects such as weight gain or mood changes when used over a long time.
9. Stem Cell Transplant
A stem cell transplant is a procedure that replaces damaged or weakened bone marrow with healthy stem cells. Stem cells can grow into new blood cells and help the immune system recover after high doses of chemotherapy. This treatment can allow doctors to give higher doses of chemotherapy safely.
Common Symptoms of Myeloma
It is also important to know the symptoms of myeloma. Recognizing early signs can lead to quicker treatment. Here are some common symptoms of myeloma.
- Bone pain. This is one of the most common signs, especially in the back or ribs.
- Weakness. A general feeling of tiredness or being weak can be a sign that something is not right.
- Fatigue. Feeling very tired all the time, even after a good night’s sleep, is common.
- Nausea and vomiting. These signs may appear as the disease progresses or as a side effect of treatment.
- Unexplained weight loss. Losing weight without trying could be a sign that there is an illness.
- Bruising. Easy bruising can occur when the blood cells that help with clotting are affected.
- Fever. A low-grade fever or frequent infections may occur because the immune system is weakened.
- Confusion. When myeloma affects the body or treatments cause side effects, confusion can sometimes be a symptom.
There are many treatment options available for myeloma. Remember, early detection and the right treatment can make a big difference in managing myeloma and improving quality of life.