Phase II study of rDNA human alpha-2 interferon in multiple myeloma

This is a report of a phase II trial of rDNA human alpha-2 interferon (IFN) (Schering-Plough 30500) in previously treated patients with multiple myeloma. Patients received 2 megaunits/m2 of IFN by sc injection 3 days per week for 3 months. Responding patients continued receiving the same dose, but those with stable disease received 10 megaunits/m2 three times per week. Eighteen patients were treated. Two partial responses were seen, one at the lower dose and one at the higher dose. The lower dose was well tolerated, but three of six patients who received 10 megaunits/m2 had to stop treatment because of toxicity. Hematological toxicity was mild. At this dose and schedule, IFN has only minimal activity in previously treated patients.