DARZALEX FASPRO® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) shows 51 percent reduction in risk of progression to active multiple myeloma for patients with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma

Rhea-AI Summary

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) announced significant results from the Phase 3 AQUILA study of DARZALEX FASPRO® for high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). The study showed a 51% reduction in progression risk to active multiple myeloma compared to standard monitoring.

Key findings at 65.2 months median follow-up include: 63.1% versus 40.8% patients remained progression-free at 60 months, 93% versus 86.9% five-year survival rates, and 63.4% versus 2.0% overall response rates for DARZALEX FASPRO® versus active monitoring respectively.

Grade 3/4 adverse events occurred in 40.4% of treated patients versus 30.1% in monitored patients. The company has submitted applications to FDA and EMA for treatment approval in high-risk SMM patients.

Positive

• 51% reduction in risk of progression to active multiple myeloma
• 63.1% progression-free rate at 60 months vs 40.8% for control group
• Higher 5-year survival rate (93% vs 86.9%)
• Superior overall response rate of 63.4% vs 2.0% for control group
• Regulatory submissions already filed with FDA and EMA

Negative

• Higher rate of Grade 3/4 adverse events (40.4%) compared to control group (30.1%)
• 5.7% treatment discontinuation rate due to adverse events

Insights

Medical Research Analyst

The AQUILA Phase 3 study results represent a significant breakthrough in treating high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM). The 51% reduction in progression risk and improved 5-year survival rates (93% vs 86.9%) demonstrate DARZALEX FASPRO®'s exceptional efficacy. The overall response rate of 63.4% compared to just 2% with active monitoring is particularly striking.

The safety profile appears manageable, with Grade 3/4 adverse events at 40.4% and a low discontinuation rate of 5.7%. This favorable risk-benefit ratio, combined with the subcutaneous administration route, could position DARZALEX FASPRO® as a new standard of care for high-risk SMM patients.

Financial Analyst

This development could significantly expand DARZALEX FASPRO®'s market potential for Johnson & Johnson. With no currently approved treatments for high-risk SMM, securing this indication would give J&J first-mover advantage in an untapped market segment. The pending FDA and EMA applications could lead to regulatory approvals in 2024, potentially driving substantial revenue growth.

The strong efficacy data and established safety profile increase the likelihood of regulatory success and subsequent insurance coverage. Given DARZALEX's existing strong market position in multiple myeloma, this expansion could strengthen J&J's oncology portfolio and contribute meaningfully to future earnings.

First and only subcutaneous anti-CD38 therapy demonstrating potential to prevent end-organ damage, and extend progression-free survival and overall survival based on findings from Phase 3 AQUILA study

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) today announced data from the Phase 3 AQUILA study showing that DARZALEX FASPRO^® (daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj) significantly delayed progression from high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) to active multiple myeloma (MM) and extended overall survival compared to the current standard of care of active monitoring.¹ The data were presented for the first time as an oral presentation at the 2024 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting (Abstract #773), as part of the Press Program and were selected for the Best of ASH session. 

In the AQUILA study, 194 patients received DARZALEX FASPRO^® and 196 patients were actively monitored per current standard of care treatment for high-risk SMM. At a median follow-up of 65.2 (range, 0-76.6) months, patients who received DARZALEX FASPRO^® showed statistically significant improved progression-free survival (PFS; defined as progression to active MM as assessed according to International Myeloma working Group (IMWG) diagnostic criteria for MM [SLiM-CRAB] or death) than the active monitoring group; 63.1 percent versus 40.8 percent of patients remained progression-free at 60 months (hazard ratio [HR], 0.49; 95 percent confidence interval [CI], 0.36-0.67; P<0.001). Among patients who were retrospectively categorized as having high-risk SMM per the current Mayo 2018 criteria (20/2/20), median progression-free survival was not reached in the DARZALEX FASPRO^® arm and was 22.1 months in the active monitoring arm (HR, 0.36; 95 percent CI, 0.23-0.58). Overall survival was also extended with DARZALEX FASPRO^®, with 5-year survival rates of 93 percent versus 86.9 percent for active monitoring (HR, 0.52; 95 percent CI, 0.27-0.98).¹

"Patients with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma, which has no approved treatment, have a high probability of progressing to active multiple myeloma – a life-threatening stage of the disease," said Meletios A. Dimopoulos, M.D., Professor and Chairman of the Department of Clinical Therapeutics at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine and presenting author. "Findings from AQUILA highlight the potential of early intervention with DARZALEX FASPRO to delay disease progression, extend overall survival and prevent end-organ damage associated with active multiple myeloma."

Additionally, patients who received DARZALEX FASPRO^® saw a higher overall response rate of 63.4 percent compared to 2.0 percent with active monitoring (P <0.001). Median time to first-line MM treatment was not reached for patients receiving DARZALEX FASPRO^® compared to 50.2 months with active monitoring (HR, 0.46; 95 percent CI, 0.33-0.62; nominal P<0.0001).¹

"We are encouraged by the findings from the AQUILA study, which may help to underscore the critical role of early disease intervention and potential to improve outcomes for patients with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma," said Jordan Schecter, M.D., Vice President, Disease Area Leader, Multiple Myeloma, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine. "This proactive approach further highlights our goal of evolving the standard of care for patients at every stage of the disease."

Grade 3/4 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 40.4 percent of patients treated with DARZALEX FASPRO^® and 30.1 percent of patients actively monitored. The most common (≥5 percent in either group) Grade 3/4 TEAE was hypertension (5.7 percent vs.4.6 percent, respectively). The frequency of TEAEs leading to discontinuation of DARAZLEX FASPRO^® was low (5.7 percent), as was the incidence of fatal TEAEs in both groups (0.5 percent vs. 2.0 percent, respectively).¹

Last month, Johnson & Johnson submitted a supplemental Biologics License Application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and an Extension of Indication application to the European Medicines Agency for DARZALEX FASPRO^® and DARZALEX^® subcutaneous (SC) formulation, respectively, for the treatment of adult patients with high-risk SMM based on the Phase 3 AQUILA data.

About the AQUILA Study 
AQUILA (NCT03301220) is a randomized, multicenter Phase 3 study comparing treatment with DARZALEX FASPRO^® to active monitoring in patients with smoldering multiple myeloma. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS), defined as progression to active multiple myeloma as assessed by an independent review committee and according to IMWG diagnostic criteria for MM (SLiM-CRAB) or death. Major secondary endpoints included overall response rate, PFS on first-line MM treatment (PFS2), and overall survival.

About Smoldering Multiple Myeloma 
Smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) is an asymptomatic precursor state to multiple myeloma (MM). Patients with SMM 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 SMM, and half of those diagnosed with high-risk disease will progress to active multiple myeloma within two years.²

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.² In multiple myeloma, these malignant plasma cells proliferate and replace normal cells in the bone marrow.³ Multiple myeloma is the second most common blood cancer worldwide and remains an incurable disease.⁴ 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.⁵ People with multiple myeloma have a 5-year survival rate of 59.8 percent. 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.^6,7

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.^1,4 It is the only subcutaneous CD38-directed antibody approved to treat patients with MM. DARZALEX FASPRO^® is co-formulated with recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20, 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.⁶ 

DARZALEX^® is the first CD38-directed antibody approved to treat multiple myeloma.⁶ DARZALEX^®-based regimens have been used in the treatment of more than 585,000 patients worldwide and more than 239,000 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 https://www.darzalexhcp.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. 

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 https://www.jnj.com/ or at www.innovativemedicine.jnj.com. Follow us at @JanssenUS and @JNJInnovMed. Janssen Research & Development, LLC and Janssen Biotech, Inc., and Janssen Global Services, LLC 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., Janssen Global Services, LLC 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., Janssen Global Services, LLC, nor Johnson & Johnson undertake to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.

 

^* Dr. Meletios A. Dimopoulos, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens School of Medicine, has provided consulting, advisory, and speaking services to Johnson & Johnson; he has not been paid for any media work.

 

¹Dimopoulos, M. 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. ASH 2024. December 8, 2024.
²Rajkumar SV. Multiple Myeloma: 2020 Update on Diagnosis, Risk-Stratification and Management. Am J Hematol. 2020;95(5):548-567. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32212178 
³National Cancer Institute. Plasma Cell Neoplasms. Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/myeloma/patient/myeloma-treatment-pdq 
⁴Multiple Myeloma. City of Hope, 2022. Multiple Myeloma: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments. Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma 
⁵American Cancer Society. Myeloma Cancer Statistics. Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://cancerstatisticscenter.cancer.org/types/myeloma 
⁶American Cancer Society. What is Multiple Myeloma? Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiple-myeloma/about/what-is-multiple-myeloma.html 
⁷American Cancer Society. Multiple Myeloma Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging. Accessed August 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/multiple-myeloma/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html

 

Media contact:  Sarah Freeman sfreem21@its.jnj.com     Jessica Szramiak jszramia@its.jnj.com

Investor contact:  Lauren Johnson investor-relations@its.jnj.com       U.S. Medical Inquiries   +1 800 526-7736

 

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SOURCE Daniel J. Edelman Holdings, Inc.

FAQ

What were the main results of JNJ's DARZALEX FASPRO Phase 3 AQUILA study?

The study showed DARZALEX FASPRO reduced progression risk by 51%, with 63.1% of patients remaining progression-free at 60 months compared to 40.8% in the control group, and achieved 93% five-year survival rate versus 86.9% for active monitoring.

What are the side effects of DARZALEX FASPRO reported in the AQUILA study?

The study reported Grade 3/4 adverse events in 40.4% of treated patients, with hypertension being the most common (5.7%). The treatment discontinuation rate was 5.7%, and fatal adverse events occurred in 0.5% of treated patients.

Has JNJ submitted DARZALEX FASPRO for regulatory approval for SMM?

Yes, Johnson & Johnson has submitted applications to both the FDA and EMA for DARZALEX FASPRO approval in treating high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma based on the Phase 3 AQUILA data.