GSK has recently announced that the National Medical Products Administration of China has approved Blenrep (belantamab mafodotin) in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone (BVd). This approval specifically targets adults with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have undergone at least one prior line of therapy. Following a priority review and Breakthrough Therapy Designation, Blenrep enters the market as the only anti BCMA therapy approved for second line plus treatment in China.

Clinical evidence and survival benefits

The approval is backed by results from the pivotal DREAMM 7 phase III trial. Data from the study showed that the Blenrep combination nearly tripled median progression free survival and demonstrated a 42% reduction in the risk of death when compared to a daratumumab based triplet. The safety and tolerability of the combination remained consistent with the established profiles of the individual agents used in the trial.

Addressing healthcare burden and patient access

A key differentiator for Blenrep is its status as the only anti BCMA antibody drug conjugate that is administered entirely in an outpatient setting. The 30 minute infusion requires no complex pre administration regimens or hospitalization, which helps minimize the burden on both patients and the healthcare system. This is particularly relevant in China, where the annual incidence of multiple myeloma has reached approximately 30,000 new cases.

Leadership commentary

Hesham Abdullah, senior vice president and global head of oncology R&D at GSK, highlighted the clinical and practical significance of the approval:

“Patients with multiple myeloma who face relapse need treatment options that are both effective and accessible. Today’s approval of Blenrep brings anti-BCMA therapy to patients in China with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma in 2L+, introducing a differentiated mechanism of action with the potential to help slow disease progression and extend survival. Further, Blenrep as the only anti-BCMA ADC is fully outpatient administered, so patients can be treated at any site of care without complex pre-administration regimens or hospitalisation.”

Market impact in China

Over the past three decades, mortality from multiple myeloma in China has increased by 50%. By providing a new mechanism of action that targets the B cell maturation antigen (BCMA), Blenrep offers a critical alternative for patients who have relapsed. Its availability as an outpatient therapy positions it as a more accessible option compared to other complex cell or gene therapies that often require specialized inpatient care.