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Melphalan/Prednisone/Velcade

PETHEMA Foundation · Phase 3 active Small molecule

This combination uses melphalan (alkylating agent) and prednisone (corticosteroid) as backbone therapy with bortezomib/Velcade (proteasome inhibitor) to kill multiple myeloma cells through DNA damage, immunosuppression, and disruption of protein degradation pathways.

This combination uses melphalan (alkylating agent) and prednisone (corticosteroid) as backbone therapy with bortezomib/Velcade (proteasome inhibitor) to kill multiple myeloma cells through DNA damage, immunosuppression, and disruption of protein degradation pathways. Used for Multiple myeloma (newly diagnosed, elderly or transplant-ineligible patients).

At a glance

Generic nameMelphalan/Prednisone/Velcade
SponsorPETHEMA Foundation
Drug classCombination chemotherapy (alkylating agent + corticosteroid + proteasome inhibitor)
TargetDNA (melphalan); glucocorticoid receptor (prednisone); 26S proteasome (bortezomib/Velcade)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Melphalan damages DNA in rapidly dividing myeloma cells. Prednisone provides immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects. Bortezomib inhibits the 26S proteasome, preventing degradation of pro-apoptotic proteins and causing accumulation of misfolded proteins, leading to myeloma cell death. The three-drug combination targets multiple pathways to overcome drug resistance.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results