From the Guidelines
No, Daratumumab cannot be given orally. Daratumumab is a monoclonal antibody medication that must be administered intravenously (IV) or subcutaneously (under the skin) [ 1 ]. The medication is a large protein molecule that would be broken down by digestive enzymes if taken by mouth, preventing it from reaching the bloodstream intact and rendering it ineffective.
Administration Routes
- Intravenous (IV) infusion: typically takes several hours, especially for initial doses
- Subcutaneous injection: takes about 3-5 minutes Daratumumab works by targeting the CD38 protein found on multiple myeloma cells, helping the immune system identify and destroy these cancer cells [ 1 ]. The dosing schedule varies depending on the specific treatment protocol and whether it's being used alone or in combination with other medications. Patients receiving Daratumumab should be monitored for infusion-related reactions, which are most common during the first infusion but can occur with subsequent treatments as well [ 1 ]. According to the most recent guidelines, daratumumab intravenous infusion or daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj, subcutaneous injection may be used in all daratumumab-containing regimens [ 1 ].
From the FDA Drug Label
DARZALEX ®(daratumumab) injection, for intravenous use Dilute and administer as an intravenous infusion. Injection: 100 mg/5 mL (20 mg/mL) solution in a single-dose vial Injection: 400 mg/20 mL (20 mg/mL) solution in a single-dose vial For Intravenous Infusion Only
Daratumumab administration: Daratumumab is administered as an intravenous infusion.
- The recommended dose is 16 mg/kg actual body weight.
- It is not intended for oral use. The FDA drug label does not support oral administration of Daratumumab 2, 2.
From the Research
Administration of Daratumumab
- Daratumumab is typically administered via intravenous infusion 3, 4 or subcutaneous formulation 5.
- There is no evidence to suggest that daratumumab can be given orally.
Routes of Administration
- Intravenous daratumumab has been shown to be effective in treating multiple myeloma 3, 4.
- Subcutaneous daratumumab has been approved for use in both the United States and European Union, offering shorter infusion times and decreased rate of infusion reactions while maintaining non-inferior efficacy 5.