Proteasome inhibitors (PIs) in combination with immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) have been shown to be effective against relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). To determine the optimal dosing schedule of once weekly bortezomib (BTZ) combined with lenalidomide (LEN) and dexamethasone (DEX), especially in the outpatient setting, we conducted a phase I dose escalation study. A 21-day cycle of BTZ 1.3 mg/m(2) on days 1 and 8, LEN 10 mg/day (cohort 1) or 15 mg/day (cohort 2) on days 1-14, and DEX 20 mg/day on days 1, 2, 8, and 9 was administered. Three patients were enrolled in each cohort. No dose-limiting toxicity was observed in either cohort. Although hematological toxicities estimated as >grade 3 were common, non-hematological toxicities of grade 3 or higher were rare. Two cases of newly diagnosed peripheral neuropathy (PN) were observed, while no grade 3/4 PN was observed. Two patients achieved partial response and two achieved stable disease. The recommended doses of BTZ and LEN were determined to be 1.3 mg/m(2) and 15 mg, respectively. Combination therapy of once weekly BTZ with LEN and DEX was well tolerated and shows promise as a regimen for patients with RRMM previously treated with both PIs and IMiDs.
Keywords: BLd; Bortezomib; Lenalidomide; Multiple myeloma; Refractory.