Key takeaways
Daratumumab (Darzalex) and isatuximab (Sarclisa) are both monoclonal antibodies that treat multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. They work by targeting the CD38 protein on cancer cells, which helps stop the cancer from growing and spreading. However, there are some differences between these medications. Daratumumab comes as both an IV infusion (into a vein) or an under-the-skin injection. It's considered a first-choice treatment for multiple myeloma in combination with other treatments. Isatuximab comes only as an IV infusion and is only approved for those who have received at least one prior treatment. Both medications can cause infusion-related reactions and lower blood cell counts, but isatuximab has a higher risk of causing new cancers, such as skin cancer. Additionally, you may need an additional antiviral medication during daratumumab treatment to prevent shingles, while isatuximab doesn't have this specific requirement.
