Bristol-Myers continues multiple myeloma trials after FDA lifts partial holds

Three months after the US FDA put a partial hold on three clinical trials investigating Opdivo (nivolumab) combinations in multiple myeloma, the agency has given Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) and its collaborators the all clear to continue two of the studies.

The holds were placed on the Phase I CA209039 (CheckMate-039) and the Phase II CA204142 studies after risks were identified in three other multiple myeloma trials of rival PD-1 agent Keytruda (pembrolizumab).

Safety monitors in those studies reported a higher incidence of death among those receiving Keytruda.