Janssen, the pharmaceutical division of Johnson & Johnson and a global leader in oncology innovation, has officially launched Tecvayli in Egypt, marking a critical step forward in the treatment of multiple myeloma, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer. The introduction of this first-in-class therapy represents a major milestone for patients with advanced disease and limited treatment options.
Multiple myeloma accounts for approximately 15% of all hematologic malignancies and is responsible for nearly 1.9% of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The complexity of the disease and its resistance to standard therapies underscore the urgent need for novel therapeutic approaches.
A Breakthrough in Targeted Immunotherapy
Tecvayli (teclistamab) is a first-in-class bispecific antibody that targets BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen) on malignant plasma cells. Administered subcutaneously, the therapy redirects T-cells to recognize and eliminate cancer cells, offering a novel and highly targeted mechanism of action for patients who have undergone at least three prior lines of therapy, including proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory agents, and anti-CD38 antibodies.
“Tecvayli represents a significant advancement in the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma,” said Dr. Raafat Abdel Fattah, Consultant Hematologist and Bone Marrow Transplant Specialist at Cairo University’s National Cancer Institute. “It provides new hope for patients facing limited options due to resistance or relapse following previous therapies.”
Oncology Care Through Scientific Innovation
Janssen’s investment in multiple myeloma spans over two decades of research and clinical development. The launch of Tecvayli in Egypt reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to transforming cancer care through innovation and accessibility.
“Multiple myeloma presents a broad spectrum of complications including bone damage, kidney dysfunction, anemia, and severe infections,” noted Dr. Ashraf El-Ghandour, Professor of Hematology and Internal Medicine at Alexandria University. “Access to cutting-edge therapies like Tecvayli is crucial for improving patient outcomes and aligning treatment protocols with international best practices.”
Driving Healthcare Advancement
The launch event in Cairo underscored the vital role of collaboration between Egypt’s national healthcare institutions and the global pharmaceutical industry in accelerating access to advanced treatment modalities.
“At Janssen, we believe strongly in the responsibility of the private sector to work alongside national institutions to bring transformative therapies to patients in a timely and equitable manner,” stated Dr. Ahmed El-Houfi, Managing Director of Janssen Egypt. “This launch is both a professional obligation and a humanitarian commitment.”
Dr. El-Houfi also highlighted Egypt’s dynamic healthcare transformation, citing the government’s ongoing initiatives to modernize the pharmaceutical sector and promote innovation through strategic forums and partnerships. “We are proud to be part of this progress and remain dedicated to ensuring every patient has access to life-saving solutions,” he said.
Aligning with Egypt’s Vision for Comprehensive Healthcare Reform
Egypt’s national health strategy, aligned with Vision 2030, prioritizes universal access to high-quality medical services and the integration of cutting-edge technologies into the public healthcare system.
“The availability of Tecvayli in Egypt marks a major leap forward in addressing one of the most difficult-to-treat cancers,” said Dr. Mervat Mattar, Professor of Hematology at Qasr Al-Aini Faculty of Medicine. “It demonstrates Egypt’s growing capacity to deliver globally recognized therapies and reflects the success of international collaboration.”
A Sustained Legacy of Leadership in Oncology
Since 2017, Janssen has been at the forefront of innovation in multiple myeloma therapy, developing and delivering treatments that address critical unmet medical needs. With over 60 years of experience driving transformative change in patient care, Janssen continues to lead in the field of oncology by focusing on science, strategic partnerships, and equitable access.
“The launch of Tecvayli is a continuation of our commitment to the patients who need it most,” said Dr. Heba Hussein, Medical Director for the JENA region at Janssen Egypt. “Our mission is to improve the lives of those living with cancer through groundbreaking science and patient-centered innovation.”
A New Standard in Cancer Treatment
As Tecvayli enters the Egyptian market, its availability signals a new era in hematologic oncology—where advanced immunotherapy becomes a tangible option for patients previously left with few alternatives.
With growing collaboration between public health authorities and the private sector, Egypt is rapidly positioning itself as a regional leader in cancer care. The arrival of Tecvayli not only expands treatment options but also reinforces the nation’s role in the global fight against cancer.
