Bortezomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (VRd) vs carfilzomib, lenalidomide and dexamethasone (KRd) as induction therapy in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma

Abstract Lenalidomide and dexamethasone with bortezomib (VRd) or carfilzomib (KRd) are commonly used induction regimens in the U.S. This single-center, retrospective study evaluated outcomes and safety of VRd and KRd. Primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Of 389 patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, 198 received VRd and 191 received KRd. Median PFS was not reached (NR) in both groups; 5-year PFS was 56% (95%CI, 48–64%) for VRd and 67% (60–75%) for KRd (P = 0.027). Estimated 5-year EFS was 34% (95%CI, 27–42%) for VRd and 52% (45–60%) for KRd (P