Considering a Myeloma CAR T Cell Therapy Clinical Trial? Here’s What You Should Know
What should you know before joining a CAR T-cell therapy clinical trial? This animated video shares key advice to help guide discussions with your healthcare team and reviews factors to consider before enrolling in a trial.
Related Resources:
 |  How Can Myeloma Patients Access CAR T-Cell Therapy Clinical Trials? |  |
Transcript:
CAR T-cell therapy has revolutionized care for people with myeloma in recent years. This treatment is an innovative form of immunotherapy that modifies the patient’s own T cells to target and destroy cancer cells. While there are FDA-approved CAR T-cell therapies for myeloma, ongoing clinical trials are helping to expand this therapy’s use.
If you or a loved one is considering participating in a CAR T-cell therapy clinical trial, these questions may help guide your conversations with your doctor and support decision-making:
- Am I a candidate for any CAR T-cell therapy clinical trials?
- How do the potential benefits compare to my current treatment options?
- What side effects should I expect if I participate in the trial, and how will they be managed?
- What phase is the study, and how might it impact my care?
- What is the time commitment involved, and where will the trial take place?
When deciding whether or not to participate in a CAR T-cell therapy clinical trial, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons with your healthcare team to determine if this approach aligns with your treatment goals. You should also discuss your options with a care partner, such as a friend or family member.
Before enrolling in a trial, consider these factors:
- Ensure you have a reliable care partner to assist you during and after treatment. In most cases, a care partner is required for patients undergoing CAR T-cell therapy.
- Understand the costs involved. For some trials, the sponsor may cover a portion of the cost. Ask about financial resources that may help with participation, such as transportation or lodging assistance.
- Be sure to review the informed consent process carefully. This form will outline the trial’s purpose, potential risks, benefits, and your rights as a participant.
- And you should understand that participation in a clinical trial is voluntary. You have the right to leave the trial at any time, for any reason.
- It’s also a good idea to understand what to expect before, during, and after the clinical trial process. Taking steps to prepare for life outside of treatment can be highly beneficial, and can support positive mental and emotional heath.
Taking part in a CAR T-cell therapy clinical trial offers a unique opportunity—it could provide access to advanced therapies and support critical cancer research. Reflect on how trial participation fits in with your personal treatment goals, and be sure to include your care partner and healthcare team as you make decisions.
Remember, it’s important to stay proactive and informed. Whether you join a CAR T-cell therapy clinical trial or explore other treatment options, make choices that prioritize your well-being and support your journey forward.
For more information about CAR T-cell therapy and clinical trial participation, visit the Patient Empowerment Network at PowerfulPatients.org.
