• If approved, DARZALEX FASPRO^® will become the first treatment option for patients with smoldering multiple myeloma at high-risk of developing multiple myeloma, offering a novel approach to treat before the onset of active disease and the occurrence of end organ damage

RARITAN, N.J., Nov. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) today announced the submission of regulatory applications to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) seeking approval of a new indication for DARZALEX FASPRO^® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) in the U.S. and DARZALEX^®  subcutaneous (SC) formulation in the European Union (EU). The applications are supported by data from the ongoing Phase 3 AQUILA study (NCT03301220) of DARZALEX FASPRO^® as monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma.¹

Smoldering multiple myeloma is an early precursor of active multiple myeloma, where abnormal cells can be detected in the bone marrow, but patients are typically asymptomatic.² Fifteen percent of all cases of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma are classified as smoldering multiple myeloma, and half of those diagnosed with high-risk disease will progress to active multiple myeloma within two years.³ Currently, smoldering multiple myeloma is not generally treated until active multiple myeloma develops. Instead, the standard approach is observation to track the disease for signs of biochemical progression and/or end organ damage, when treatment tends to be initiated.² Recent evidence suggests that those at high-risk for progression to active multiple myeloma could benefit from earlier therapeutic intervention.⁴

"There remains an unmet need for early interventions and treatments that are both effective and well tolerated in people living with smoldering multiple myeloma at high-risk of progressing to active multiple myeloma," said Yusri Elsayed, M.D., M.H.Sc., Ph.D. Global Therapeutic Area Head, Oncology, Innovative Medicine, Johnson & Johnson. "DARZALEX has changed the standard of care in multiple myeloma, and with these submissions to the FDA and EMA, this therapy could become the first approved treatment for patients with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma, potentially shifting the treatment paradigm."

The first data from the AQUILA study, evaluating the safety and efficacy of DARZALEX FASPRO^® compared to active monitoring in participants with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma, will be presented at the 2024 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting, taking place in San Diego from December 7-10.⁴

About the AQUILA Study

AQUILA (NCT03301220) is a randomized, multicenter Phase 3 study investigating DARZALEX FASPRO^® versus active monitoring in patients (n=390) with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma.¹ The primary endpoint is progression free survival and secondary endpoints include time to progression, overall response rate and overall survival.¹ Patients in the study were diagnosed with smoldering multiple myeloma in the last five years and were excluded if they had prior exposure to approved or investigational treatments for smoldering multiple myeloma or multiple myeloma.¹

About Smoldering Multiple Myeloma

Smoldering multiple myeloma is an asymptomatic precursor state to multiple myeloma. Patients with smoldering multiple myeloma have higher levels of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow and an elevated monoclonal protein (M-protein) level in the blood, but they do not yet exhibit the symptoms commonly associated with active multiple myeloma, particularly end-organ damage. Fifteen percent of all cases of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma are classified as smoldering multiple myeloma, and half of those diagnosed with high-risk disease will progress to active multiple myeloma within two years.³

About Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that affects a type of white blood cell called plasma cells, which are found in the bone marrow.⁵ In multiple myeloma, these malignant plasma cells proliferate and replace normal cells in the bone marrow.⁶ Multiple myeloma is the second most common blood cancer worldwide and remains an incurable disease.⁷ In 2024, it is estimated that more than 35,000 people will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma in the U.S. and more than 12,000 will die from the disease.⁸ People with multiple myeloma have a 5-year survival rate of 59.8 percent.⁸ While some people diagnosed with multiple myeloma initially have no symptoms, most patients are diagnosed due to symptoms that can include bone fracture or pain, low red blood cell counts, tiredness, high calcium levels, kidney problems or infections.^9,10

About DARZALEX FASPRO^® and DARZALEX^®

DARZALEX FASPRO^® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) received U.S. FDA approval in May 2020 and is approved for nine indications in multiple myeloma, four of which are for frontline treatment in newly diagnosed patients who are transplant eligible or ineligible.¹¹ It is the only subcutaneous CD38-directed antibody approved to treat patients with multiple myeloma. DARZALEX FASPRO^® is co-formulated with recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20 (rHuPH20), Halozyme's ENHANZE^® drug delivery technology.

DARZALEX^® (daratumumab) received U.S. FDA approval in November 2015 and is approved in eight indications, three of which are in the frontline setting, including newly diagnosed patients who are transplant-eligible and ineligible.¹²

DARZALEX^® is the first CD38-directed antibody approved to treat multiple myeloma.¹² DARZALEX^®-based regimens have been used in the treatment of more than 518,000 patients worldwide and more than 68,000 patients in the U.S. alone.

In August 2012, Janssen Biotech, Inc. and Genmab A/S entered a worldwide agreement, which granted Janssen an exclusive license to develop, manufacture and commercialize daratumumab.

For more information, visit www.DARZALEX.com.

DARZALEX FASPRO^® INDICATIONS AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION  

INDICATIONS

DARZALEX FASPRO^® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma:

• In combination with bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone for induction and consolidation in newly diagnosed patients who are eligible for autologous stem cell transplant
• In combination with bortezomib, melphalan, and prednisone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant
• In combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant and in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least one prior therapy
• In combination with bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are eligible for autologous stem cell transplant
• In combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior line of therapy including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor (PI)
• In combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three prior lines of therapy
• In combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior therapy
• As monotherapy in patients who have received at least three prior lines of therapy including a PI and an immunomodulatory agent or who are double refractory to a PI and an immunomodulatory agent

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

CONTRAINDICATIONS

DARZALEX FASPRO^® is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity to daratumumab, hyaluronidase, or any of the components of the formulation.   

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS   

Hypersensitivity and Other Administration Reactions

Both systemic administration-related reactions, including severe or life-threatening reactions, and local injection-site reactions can occur with DARZALEX FASPRO^®. Fatal reactions have been reported with daratumumab-containing products, including DARZALEX FASPRO^®.  

Systemic Reactions
In a pooled safety population of 1249 patients with multiple myeloma (N=1056) or light chain (AL) amyloidosis (N=193) who received DARZALEX FASPRO® as monotherapy or in combination, 7% of patients experienced a systemic administration-related reaction (Grade 2: 3.2%, Grade 3: 0.7%, Grade 4: 0.1%). Systemic administration-related reactions occurred in 7% of patients with the first injection, 0.2% with the second injection, and cumulatively 1% with subsequent injections. The median time to onset was 2.9 hours (range: 5 minutes to 3.5 days). Of the 165 systemic administration-related reactions that occurred in 93 patients, 144 (87%) occurred on the day of DARZALEX FASPRO^® administration. Delayed systemic administration-related reactions have occurred in 1% of the patients.

Severe reactions included hypoxia, dyspnea, hypertension, tachycardia, and ocular adverse reactions, including choroidal effusion, acute myopia, and acute angle closure glaucoma. Other signs and symptoms of systemic administration-related reactions may include respiratory symptoms, such as bronchospasm, nasal congestion, cough, throat irritation, allergic rhinitis, and wheezing, as well as anaphylactic reaction, pyrexia, chest pain, pruritus, chills, vomiting, nausea, hypotension, and blurred vision.   

Pre-medicate patients with histamine-1 receptor antagonist, acetaminophen, and corticosteroids. Monitor patients for systemic administration-related reactions, especially following the first and second injections. For anaphylactic reaction or life-threatening (Grade 4) administration-related reactions, immediately and permanently discontinue DARZALEX FASPRO^®. Consider administering corticosteroids and other medications after the administration of DARZALEX FASPRO^® depending on dosing regimen and medical history to minimize the risk of delayed (defined as occurring the day after administration) systemic administration-related reactions.   

Ocular adverse reactions, including acute myopia and narrowing of the anterior chamber angle due to ciliochoroidal effusions with potential for increased intraocular pressure or glaucoma, have occurred with daratumumab-containing products. If ocular symptoms occur, interrupt DARZALEX FASPRO^® and seek immediate ophthalmologic evaluation prior to restarting DARZALEX FASPRO^®.   

Local Reactions
In this pooled safety population, injection-site reactions occurred in 7% of patients, including Grade 2 reactions in 0.8%. The most frequent (>1%) injection-site reaction was injection-site erythema. These local reactions occurred a median of 5 minutes (range: 0 minutes to 6.5 days) after starting administration of DARZALEX FASPRO^®. Monitor for local reactions and consider symptomatic management.   

Neutropenia

Daratumumab may increase neutropenia induced by background therapy. Monitor complete blood cell counts periodically during treatment according to manufacturer's prescribing information for background therapies. Monitor patients with neutropenia for signs of infection. Consider withholding DARZALEX FASPRO^® until recovery of neutrophils. In lower body weight patients receiving DARZALEX FASPRO^®, higher rates of Grade 3-4 neutropenia were observed.   

Thrombocytopenia

Daratumumab may increase thrombocytopenia induced by background therapy. Monitor complete blood cell counts periodically during treatment according to manufacturer's prescribing information for background therapies. Consider withholding DARZALEX FASPRO^® until recovery of platelets.   

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on the mechanism of action, DARZALEX FASPRO^® can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. DARZALEX FASPRO^® may cause depletion of fetal immune cells and decreased bone density. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females with reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with DARZALEX FASPRO^® and for 3 months after the last dose.   

The combination of DARZALEX FASPRO^® with lenalidomide, thalidomide, or pomalidomide is contraindicated in pregnant women because lenalidomide, thalidomide, and pomalidomide may cause birth defects and death of the unborn child. Refer to the lenalidomide, thalidomide, or pomalidomide prescribing information on use during pregnancy.   

Interference With Serological Testing

Daratumumab binds to CD38 on red blood cells (RBCs) and results in a positive indirect antiglobulin test (indirect Coombs test). Daratumumab-mediated positive indirect antiglobulin test may persist for up to 6 months after the last daratumumab administration. Daratumumab bound to RBCs masks detection of antibodies to minor antigens in the patient's serum. The determination of a patient's ABO and Rh blood type are not impacted.   

Notify blood transfusion centers of this interference with serological testing and inform blood banks that a patient has received DARZALEX FASPRO^®. Type and screen patients prior to starting DARZALEX FASPRO^®.   

Interference With Determination of Complete Response

Daratumumab is a human immunoglobulin G (IgG) kappa monoclonal antibody that can be detected on both the serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) and immunofixation (IFE) assays used for the clinical monitoring of endogenous M-protein. This interference can impact the determination of complete response and of disease progression in some DARZALEX FASPRO^®-treated patients with IgG kappa myeloma protein.   

ADVERSE REACTIONS

In multiple myeloma, the most common adverse reaction (≥20%) with DARZALEX FASPRO^® monotherapy is upper respiratory tract infection. The most common adverse reactions with combination therapy (≥20% for any combination) include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, dyspnea, insomnia, headache, pyrexia, cough, muscle spasms, back pain, vomiting, hypertension, upper respiratory tract infection, peripheral sensory neuropathy, constipation, pneumonia, and peripheral edema.   

The most common hematology laboratory abnormalities (≥40%) with DARZALEX FASPRO^® are decreased leukocytes, decreased lymphocytes, decreased neutrophils, decreased platelets, and decreased hemoglobin.   

Please click here to see the full Prescribing Information for DARZALEX FASPRO^®.   

DARZALEX^® INDICATIONS AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION 

INDICATIONS 

DARZALEX^® (daratumumab) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma: 

• In combination with bortezomib, melphalan, and prednisone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant 
• In combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant and in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received at least one prior therapy 
• In combination with bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed patients who are eligible for autologous stem cell transplant 
• In combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior line of therapy including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor 
• In combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three prior lines of therapy 
• In combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone in patients who have received at least one prior therapy 
• As monotherapy in patients who have received at least three prior lines of therapy including a proteasome inhibitor (PI) and an immunomodulatory agent or who are double-refractory to a PI and an immunomodulatory agent 

CONTRAINDICATIONS

DARZALEX^® is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypersensitivity (eg, anaphylactic reactions) to daratumumab or any of the components of the formulation. 

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS 

Infusion-Related Reactions

DARZALEX^® can cause severe and/or serious infusion-related reactions including anaphylactic reactions. These reactions can be lifethreatening, and fatal outcomes have been reported. In clinical trials (monotherapy and combination: N=2066), infusion-related reactions occurred in 37% of patients with the Week 1 (16 mg/kg) infusion, 2% with the Week 2 infusion, and cumulatively 6% with subsequent infusions. Less than 1% of patients had a Grade 3/4 infusion-related reaction at Week 2 or subsequent infusions. The median time to onset was 1.5 hours (range: 0 to 73 hours). Nearly all reactions occurred during infusion or within 4 hours of completing DARZALEX^®. Severe reactions have occurred, including bronchospasm, hypoxia, dyspnea, hypertension, tachycardia, headache, laryngeal edema, pulmonary edema, and ocular adverse reactions, including choroidal effusion, acute myopia, and acute angle closure glaucoma. Signs and symptoms may include respiratory symptoms, such as nasal congestion, cough, throat irritation, as well as chills, vomiting, and nausea. Less common signs and symptoms were wheezing, allergic rhinitis, pyrexia, chest discomfort, pruritus, hypotension and blurred vision. 

When DARZALEX^® dosing was interrupted in the setting of ASCT (CASSIOPEIA) for a median of 3.75 months (range: 2.4 to 6.9 months), upon re-initiation of DARZALEX^®, the incidence of infusion-related reactions was 11% for the first infusion following ASCT. Infusion-related reactions occurring at re-initiation of DARZALEX^® following ASCT were consistent in terms of symptoms and severity (Grade 3 or 4: <1%) with those reported in previous studies at Week 2 or subsequent infusions. In EQUULEUS, patients receiving combination treatment (n=97) were administered the first 16 mg/kg dose at Week 1 split over two days, ie, 8 mg/kg on Day 1 and Day 2, respectively. The incidence of any grade infusion-related reactions was 42%, with 36% of patients experiencing infusion-related reactions on Day 1 of Week 1, 4% on Day 2 of Week 1, and 8% with subsequent infusions. 

Pre-medicate patients with antihistamines, antipyretics, and corticosteroids. Frequently monitor patients during the entire infusion. Interrupt DARZALEX^® infusion for reactions of any severity and institute medical management as needed. Permanently discontinue DARZALEX^® therapy if an anaphylactic reaction or life-threatening (Grade 4) reaction occurs and institute appropriate emergency care. For patients with Grade 1, 2, or 3 reactions, reduce the infusion rate when re-starting the infusion. 

To reduce the risk of delayed infusion-related reactions, administer oral corticosteroids to all patients following DARZALEX^® infusions. Patients with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may require additional post-infusion medications to manage respiratory complications. Consider prescribing short- and long-acting bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. 

Ocular adverse reactions, including acute myopia and narrowing of the anterior chamber angle due to ciliochoroidal effusions with potential for increased intraocular pressure or glaucoma, have occurred with DARZALEX^® infusion. If ocular symptoms occur, interrupt DARZALEX^® infusion and seek immediate ophthalmologic evaluation prior to restarting DARZALEX^®. 

Interference With Serological Testing

Daratumumab binds to CD38 on red blood cells (RBCs) and results in a positive indirect antiglobulin test (indirect Coombs test). Daratumumab-mediated positive indirect antiglobulin test may persist for up to 6 months after the last daratumumab infusion. Daratumumab bound to RBCs masks detection of antibodies to minor antigens in the patient's serum. The determination of a patient's ABO and Rh blood type is not impacted. Notify blood transfusion centers of this interference with serological testing and inform blood banks that a patient has received DARZALEX^®. Type and screen patients prior to starting DARZALEX^®. 

Neutropenia and Thrombocytopenia

DARZALEX^® may increase neutropenia and thrombocytopenia induced by background therapy. Monitor complete blood cell counts periodically during treatment according to manufacturer's prescribing information for background therapies. Monitor patients with neutropenia for signs of infection. Consider withholding DARZALEX^® until recovery of neutrophils or for recovery of platelets. 

Interference With Determination of Complete Response

Daratumumab is a human immunoglobulin G (IgG) kappa monoclonal antibody that can be detected on both the serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) and immunofixation (IFE) assays used for the clinical monitoring of endogenous M-protein. This interference can impact the determination of complete response and of disease progression in some patients with IgG kappa myeloma protein. 

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on the mechanism of action, DARZALEX^® can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. DARZALEX^® may cause depletion of fetal immune cells and decreased bone density. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females with reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with DARZALEX^® and for 3 months after the last dose. 

The combination of DARZALEX^® with lenalidomide, pomalidomide, or thalidomide is contraindicated in pregnant women because lenalidomide, pomalidomide, and thalidomide may cause birth defects and death of the unborn child. Refer to the lenalidomide, pomalidomide, or thalidomide prescribing information on use during pregnancy. 

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most frequently reported adverse reactions (incidence ≥20%) were: upper respiratory infection, neutropenia, infusionrelated reactions, thrombocytopenia, diarrhea, constipation, anemia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, fatigue, peripheral edema, nausea, cough, pyrexia, dyspnea, and asthenia. The most common hematologic laboratory abnormalities (≥40%) with DARZALEX^® are: neutropenia, lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and anemia. 

Please click here to see the full Prescribing Information for DARZALEX^®. 

About Johnson & Johnson

At Johnson & Johnson, we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build a world where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured, where treatments are smarter and less invasive, and solutions are personal. Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity. Learn more at www.jnj.com or at www.innovativemedicine.jnj.com. Follow us at @JanssenUS and @JNJInnovMed. Janssen Research & Development, LLC and Janssen Biotech, Inc. are Johnson & Johnson companies.

Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding product development and the potential benefits and treatment impact of DARZALEX FASPRO^® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj). The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Janssen Biotech, Inc. and/or Johnson & Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: challenges and uncertainties inherent in product research and development, including the uncertainty of clinical success and of obtaining regulatory approvals; uncertainty of commercial success; manufacturing difficulties and delays; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges to patents; product efficacy or safety concerns resulting in product recalls or regulatory action; changes in behavior and spending patterns of purchasers of health care products and services; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson & Johnson's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, including in the sections captioned "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors," and in Johnson & Johnson's subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com or on request from Johnson & Johnson. None of Janssen Research & Development, LLC, Janssen Biotech, Inc., nor Johnson & Johnson undertake to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.

¹ ClinicalTrials.Gov. A Study of Subcutaneous Daratumumab Versus Active Monitoring in Participants With High-Risk Smoldering Multiple Myeloma. Accessed October 2024. Available at: Study Details | A Study of Subcutaneous Daratumumab Versus Active Monitoring in Participants With High-Risk Smoldering Multiple Myeloma | ClinicalTrials.gov
² Myeloma UK. Smouldering myeloma. Accessed October 2024. Available at: https://www.myeloma.org.uk/understanding-myeloma/related-conditions/smouldering-myeloma/#:~:text=In%20smouldering%20myeloma%20abnormal%20cells,generally%20do%20not%20require%20treatment.
³ Rajkumar SV, Kumar S, Lonial S, Mateos MV. Smoldering multiple myeloma current treatment algorithms. Blood Cancer J. 2022 Sep 5;12(9):129.
⁴ M.A. Dimopoulos, et al. Phase 3 Randomized Study of Daratumumab Monotherapy Versus Active Monitoring in Patients With High-risk Smoldering Multiple Myeloma: Primary Results of the AQUILA Study. Presented at the December 2024 ASH Annual Meeting & Exposition. Abstract JJD-78127.
⁵ Rajkumar SV. Multiple Myeloma: 2020 Update on Diagnosis, Risk-Stratification and Management. Am J Hematol. 2020;95(5):548-5672020;95(5):548-567. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32212178
⁶ National Cancer Institute. Plasma Cell Neoplasms. Accessed October 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/myeloma/patient/myeloma-treatment-pdq
⁷ Multiple Myeloma. City of Hope, 2022. Multiple Myeloma: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments. Accessed October 2024. Available at: https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma
⁸ American Cancer Society. Myeloma Cancer Statistics. Accessed October 2024. Available at: https://cancerstatisticscenter.cancer.org/types/myeloma
⁹ American Cancer Society. What is Multiple Myeloma? Accessed October 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiple-myeloma/about/what-is-multiple-myeloma.html
¹⁰ American Cancer Society. Multiple Myeloma Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging. Accessed October 2024. Available at:  https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/multiple-myeloma/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html
¹¹ DARZALEX FASPRO^® U.S. Prescribing Information
¹² DARZALEX^® U.S. Prescribing Information