Iceland Screens Treats or Prevents Multiple Myeloma (iStopMM): A nationwide phase 2 trial of patients with smoldering and active multiple myeloma (MM)
This study, called iStopMM, is a research project focused on multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that affects plasma cells in your blood. It's investigating if certain medications can effectively treat or even prevent this condition. The study is particularly interested in people who have an early form of the disease, called smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), or those who already have more advanced multiple myeloma. Researchers want to see if these treatments can reduce the amount of cancer cells in the body to very low levels, known as "MRD negativity." This is a Phase 2 study, meaning it's still in the earlier stages of testing new treatments to see how well they work and if they are safe.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research project, known as iStopMM, is looking into multiple myeloma, which is a type of cancer that affects specific cells in your bone marrow called plasma cells. These cells are part of your immune system. The study aims to find better ways to treat or prevent this condition from getting worse. Sometimes, people can have an early stage of multiple myeloma called 'smoldering multiple myeloma' (SMM), where the cancer is present but not yet causing major problems. This study is exploring if treating SMM early can stop it from becoming more severe.
The researchers are testing a combination of medicines: Kyprolis, Revlimid, and Dexamethasone. They want to see if these treatments can help participants achieve something called 'MRD negativity.' This means that the amount of cancer cells in their body is so low that standard tests can no longer detect them. Achieving MRD negativity is often a good sign, as it suggests the treatment has been very effective in reducing the cancer.
This is a Phase 2 study, which means it’s still in the process of thoroughly checking if these new treatments are safe and how well they work. They will also look at how patients respond to the treatment, any side effects they might experience, and the overall difference it makes to their health. The study is open to both people with smoldering multiple myeloma and those who already have active multiple myeloma.
Key takeaways
- The study is investigating potential new treatments for multiple myeloma.
- It aims to see if treatment can prevent or better control the cancer.
- Participants will receive specific medications and have regular check-ups.
- The main goal is to see if treatments can lead to very low cancer levels (MRD negativity).
- It includes people with early (smoldering) and active multiple myeloma.
- Participation will involve monitoring for at least three years.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for a wide range of people to take part. Generally, you need to be an adult, 18 years old or older. There is no upper age limit, so older adults can also participate.
Both men and women are welcome to join this research. This helps ensure the study's findings are relevant to everyone who might be affected by multiple myeloma.
The study is specifically for people who have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma. This includes those with 'smoldering multiple myeloma' (an early form of the disease) and those with 'active multiple myeloma' (where the disease is more advanced). Your doctor would be able to tell you if you fit into one of these groups.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with multiple myeloma (either smoldering or active)?
- Are you able to attend regular clinic appointments?
- Are you willing to take the study medications as prescribed?
- Do you understand that there will be various tests and check-ups during the study?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be given a combination of medications: Kyprolis, Revlimid, and Dexamethasone. These will be given in different ways – Kyprolis as an infusion (into a vein), and Revlimid and Dexamethasone as tablets you swallow. You will have regular visits to the clinic for these treatments and to have check-ups.
During your time in the study, you'll have various tests and assessments. These are important for the research team to monitor how you're responding to the treatment and to keep an eye on your overall health. This will include blood tests and other examinations to check your progress and look for any side effects.
The main goal is to see if the treatment leads to 'MRD negativity' – meaning very few or no cancer cells detectable – three years after you start the study. So, the total duration for monitoring this key outcome is at least three years, with ongoing follow-up after that.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- —UnverifiedIceland
Common questions
What is multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells, which are a kind of white blood cell found in your bone marrow.
What does 'smoldering multiple myeloma' (SMM) mean?
SMM is an early form of multiple myeloma where cancer cells are present but not yet causing symptoms or major health problems.
What is MRD negativity?
MRD negativity means that the amount of cancer cells in your body is so low that they cannot be detected by standard laboratory tests. It's often a good sign for treatment success.
Are the study medications new?
The medications Kyprolis, Revlimid, and Dexamethasone are typically used for multiple myeloma, but this study is looking at their use in specific situations, especially in early disease.
Will I have to pay to be in the study?
No, you will not have to pay for the study medications or the extra appointments and tests that are part of the research.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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