Multiple Myeloma Drug Combo Doubled Response Rates
A new treatment combination showed improved response rates in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Cancer
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The Phase III EXCALIBER-RRMM trial found that adding Zenbexus to standard therapies doubled the rate of minimal residual disease-negative complete responses. These findings, which may impact future treatment options for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, were recently presented and published.
Why it matters
Improving complete response rates in relapsed or refractory cases is a critical goal in managing multiple myeloma, as achieving minimal residual disease-negative status often correlates with better long-term outcomes. This study provides new evidence for an alternative combination therapy regimen for patients facing these treatment challenges.
In the Phase III EXCALIBER-RRMM trial, investigators compared the efficacy of Zenbexus combined with daratumumab and dexamethasone against a control regimen. The study measured minimal residual disease-negative complete response rates to evaluate treatment success.
The players
Bristol Myers Squibb
A global biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for cancer and immunological diseases.
International Myeloma Society
An international organization dedicated to promoting research and education regarding the biology and treatment of multiple myeloma.
The details
The treatment works by combining Zenbexus with existing standard-of-care drugs, daratumumab and dexamethasone, to target cancer cells more effectively in patients with relapsed or refractory disease. By aiming for minimal residual disease-negative status, this regimen seeks to reduce the cancer burden to a level where it is undetectable by standard testing methods, which is a key milestone for managing this condition.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: Trial results were presented and published.
Health Landscape
This study sits within the ongoing clinical effort to improve standard-of-care regimens for patients who have exhausted initial therapy options. The EXCALIBER-RRMM trial follows the historical arc of testing intensified combination therapies to achieve deeper responses in relapsed multiple myeloma.
If you are managing relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, these findings are a topic worth discussing with your hematologist or oncologist. You may want to ask if the regimen tested in the EXCALIBER-RRMM trial represents a potential future option for your specific case profile.
The takeaway
Achieving minimal residual disease-negative status is a significant indicator of treatment success in refractory multiple myeloma. Keep track of your response markers and consult your medical team about current trial advancements that might be relevant to your treatment plan.
Further reading
For more information on the latest research developments, visit our Cancer section.
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