CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Millennium: The Takeda Oncology Company with its parent company Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE:4502) today announced data from a meta-analysis of VELCADE-based regimens compared to non-VELCADE-based regimens as induction therapy prior to autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) in patients with previously untreated multiple myeloma (MM). These data were reported in an oral presentation at the 14th International Myeloma Workshop (IMW) held April 3-7, 2013 in Kyoto, Japan.

The median progression-free survival (PFS) was significantly higher with VELCADE-based induction therapy compared to non-VELCADE-based: 35.9 months compared to 28.6 percent respectively (p

This meta-analysis demonstrated that VELCADE-based induction therapy improved progression-free survival and overall survival in multiple myeloma patients who underwent autologous transplantation, said Karen Ferrante, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Millennium. With data from more than 1,500 patients, this meta-analysis underscores the extensive body of evidence, both in clinical trials and real-world experience, that exists for VELCADE.

Bortezomib-based versus non-bortezomib-based induction prior to ASCT in multiple myeloma: meta-analysis of phase 3 trials (Abstract #O-11)

The primary objectives of this analysis were to compare the post-transplant CR+nCR rates and PFS of VELCADE-based induction therapy (administered IV, twice weekly) with non-VELCADE-based induction in previously untreated patients with MM undergoing ASCT. Secondary endpoints included overall response rate (ORR) and overall survival (OS). This meta-analysis of three phase 3 studies included 1,572 patients. Results, which were presented by Pieter Sonneveld, M.D., Dept. of Hematology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands, showed:

Patient-level data from three large phase 3 studies were pooled in a thorough integrated analysis of efficacy and safety. Data from a fourth study was included in a larger meta-analysis; however patient-level data was not available due to legal restrictions and is not included in the data reported here with the exception of the OS. The VELCADE-based regimens included VELCADE (Vc) plus dexamethasone (dex), Vc plus doxorubicin plus dex and Vc plus thalidomide (T) plus dex. Non-Vc-based regimens included vincristine plus doxorubicin plus dex, and T plus dex.

About VELCADE VELCADE is co-developed by Millennium and Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies. Millennium is responsible for commercialization of VELCADE in the U.S.; Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies are responsible for commercialization in Europe and the rest of the world. Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited and Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K. co-promote VELCADE in Japan. VELCADE is approved in more than 90 countries and has been used to treat more than 400,000 patients worldwide.

Important Safety Information VELCADE (bortezomib) is approved for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma. VELCADE is also approved for the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma who have already received at least one prior treatment.

Patients should not receive VELCADE if they are allergic to bortezomib, boron or mannitol. VELCADE should not be administered intrathecally. Women should avoid becoming pregnant or breastfeeding while taking VELCADE. Patients with diabetes may require close monitoring and adjustment of their medication.

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Meta-Analysis of VELCADE® (bortezomib)-Based Induction Therapy Followed by Stem - Cell Transplantation Showed ...