ASTCT Endorses FDA's New CAR T-Cell Therapy Approvals for Multiple Myeloma

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently expanded the access to CAR T-cell therapies, Abecma and Carvykti, for multiple myeloma patients. This decision, now allowing the use of Abecma as a second-line treatment and Carvykti as a third, marks a significant shift from their previous application as treatments after the failure of four lines of therapy. The American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT) has expressed strong support for this FDA approval.

Endorsement from the ASTCT underscores the potential these therapies hold in altering the treatment landscape for multiple myeloma. According to ASTCT President, Corey Cutler, MD, MPH, this approval facilitates an earlier intervention, possibly enhancing patient quality of life by utilizing CAR T therapy before undergoing extensive rounds of chemotherapy. The expansion was recommended by the Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) in March 2024, reflecting a positive move towards broader access to life-saving treatments.

ASTCT continues to back innovation within the transplantation and cell therapy realm through funding research, supporting new investigators, and advocating for federal funding for these critical areas. This FDA decision is welcomed by the ASTCT as a step forward in the ongoing development and application of advanced treatments for cancer patients.