According to Phase 3 study results, Merck-Kelun combo can reduce the risk of tumor progression by 65% in patients with lung cancer. The study has been conducted in China and is the first successful combination of an antibody-drug conjugate with a PD-1 targeted immunotherapy in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
NSCLC Trial Details and Patient Outcomes
In this trial, 413 patients with treatment-naïve, locally advanced or metastatic PD-L1 positive NSCLC received TROP2-targeting ADC in combination with Merck’s Keytruda or the PD-1 inhibitor alone.
After a median follow-up of 10.5 months, the ADC-immunotherapy duo was able to reduce the risk of disease progression or death by 65% in comparison to Keytruda monotherapy. The treatment also showed higher response rates of about 70.2% in comparison to Keytruda for 42% alone.
Researchers Highlight the Significance for Lung Cancer Treatment
“To our knowledge, this is the first Phase III study to demonstrate the significant PFS benefit of an antibody-drug conjugate plus pembrolizumab in the first-line treatment of PD-L1 positive advanced NSCLC compared to pembrolizumab,” the authors wrote in the abstract.
Findings Presented Ahead of ASCO Meeting
The data from Chinese phase III OptiTROP-Lung05 study was shared in an abstract Thursday ahead of the American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting at the month-end.
Positive Impact on Merck and Future Outlook
After this news study where this pharmaceutical giant, Merck & Co. has shown positive developments across multiple Oncology programs, the shares of the company also rose 5%. It has gained investor confidence in its efforts to extend the dominance of Keytruda ahead of looming patent expirations.
Also, the treatment when combined with Keytruda demonstrated improved outcomes for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
Although the overall survival data remain immature but the early results have shown a positive trend.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only. You should always consult with your healthcare professional for any medical needs.
Subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Facebook or X today to stay informed and never miss an update!
FAQ
What is the Merck-Kelun lung cancer drug combo?
It combines a TROP2-targeting ADC with PD-1 immunotherapy for advanced NSCLC.
How did it perform against Keytruda?
The combo reduced tumor progression risk by 65% compared to Keytruda alone.
Who was included in the trial?
The study involved 413 patients with advanced or metastatic PD-L1 positive NSCLC.
Is the treatment fully approved?
The study showed promising early results, but overall survival data are still developing.