Celgene launches Revlimid for multiple myeloma in the UK

Celgene has announced that its drug Revlimid has been made available for the treatment of multiple myeloma in the UK.

The therapy has been approved for use in adult patients with previously untreated multiple myeloma who are not eligible for stem cell transplant. It is the first oral medication approved for continuous use in patients with newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma.

Data from phase III studies has demonstrated that Revlimid plus dexamethasone significantly improves progression-free and overall survival rates in newly-diagnosed multiple myeloma patients.

In one particular trial, FIRST, it was shown that continuous treatment until disease progression with this regimen almost doubled the percentage of progression-free patients at three years versus the current standard of care.

Dr Adrian Kilcoyne, medical director for Celgene in the UK and Ireland, said: "The launch of Revlimid in the UK for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma is a real step forward for patients where currently there are limited treatment options."

This comes after the firm launched Otezla, a new oral therapy option for adult patients with psoriasis, in February this year.