Addressing Common Talquetamab Misunderstandings

Patients on long-term talquetamab demonstrate that initial adverse effects resolve even with continued treatment, with patients regaining full taste function and returning to a normal quality of life while maintaining disease control. Samantha Shenoy, NP, MSN, emphasizes educating both patients and providers that toxicities improve over time rather than persist throughout treatment duration. This message counters misconceptions that might deter patients from considering this effective therapy option.

Provider education remains crucial as many health care professionals are new to bispecific antibody management and may not fully understand the temporary nature of GPRC5D-related toxicities. Educational initiatives aim to build confidence among providers in prescribing talquetamab by demonstrating that while initial adverse effects require attention, they resolve predictably. This education helps providers counsel patients appropriately about realistic expectations for treatment tolerance.

The discussion emphasizes removing stigma around talquetamab's unique adverse effect profile while highlighting its excellent efficacy in patients with heavily pretreated multiple myeloma. Alan Plisskin and Mary Kay Yamamoto’s positive experience after navigating initial challenges provides real-world evidence that patients can achieve excellent quality-of-life outcomes with proper preparation, support, and understanding of the treatment timeline. Their story illustrates that with the appropriate education and support systems; patients can successfully manage talquetamab therapy and achieve meaningful clinical benefits.