Streamlining Lymphoma Care With Multi-Indication Bispecifics

With a study published at ASH 2025 showing operational efficiencies and cost savings associated with using a single bispecific antibody with multiple indications in lymphoma, Tara M. Graff, DO, director of clinical research at Mission Cancer + Blood at the University of Iowa Health Care explores whether multi-indication therapeutic strategies are likely to become more common in hematology and oncology. She noted that across non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), many drug developers are already evaluating therapies in multiple disease states, citing examples such as BTK inhibitors with approvals spanning several indications. Bispecific antibodies are increasingly following a similar development path.

However, the interview emphasized that broader applicability does not equate to a “one-size-fits-all” approach. While a single agent may demonstrate activity across diseases such as follicular lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), marginal zone lymphoma, or mantle cell lymphoma, each indication must be evaluated independently. Clinical decision-making must remain grounded in efficacy and disease biology, and financial or operational advantages should never justify the use of a less effective therapy in a given disease state.

Within those boundaries, Graff expressed optimism that multi-indication strategies will continue to expand as understanding of mechanisms of action and lymphoma biology deepens. The bispecific antibody evaluated in the study, currently approved for both follicular lymphoma and DLBCL and under investigation in additional settings, illustrates how targeted therapies may be leveraged across related malignancies when supported by robust clinical data.

For oncology practices, the most important takeaway from the study is the practical value of treatment consolidation when efficacy is comparable. Using a single drug to treat large patient populations with follicular lymphoma and DLBCL allows teams to develop deep familiarity with administration, toxicity management, and monitoring. This expertise can enhance patient safety, improve operational efficiency, and support smoother integration of therapies as they move into earlier lines of treatment.

Ultimately, the findings suggest that when clinically appropriate, multi-indication use of a single agent can align patient care, operational simplicity, and financial sustainability—benefiting practices and patients alike without compromising clinical standards.