Takeda and Seagen to Highlight ADCETRIS® Combination Data Showing Statistically Significant Improvement in Overall Survival (OS) for Patients with Advanced Hodgkin Lymphoma

On May 26, 2022 Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE:4502) and Seagen Inc., (NASDAQ:SGEN) reported that overall survival (OS) data from the Phase 3 ECHELON-1 clinical trial of an ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin) plus chemotherapy combination will be presented in an oral session at the 59th American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting on Friday, June 3, 2022, 1:00-4:00 PM CT, and at the 27th European Hematology Association (EHA) (Free EHA Whitepaper) Annual Meeting on Friday, June 10, 2022, 11:30 – 12:45 CEST (Press release, Takeda, MAY 26, 2022, View Source [SID1234615131]).

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"The longer-term follow-up data from the ECHELON-1 trial have significant clinical importance, as this trial represents one of only two frontline randomized studies in advanced stage Hodgkin lymphoma that shows an overall survival advantage for the experimental arm," said Stephen Ansell, M.D., Ph.D., Mayo Clinic, and ECHELON-1 study investigator. "These results clearly show that the addition of brentuximab vedotin to chemotherapy improves the long-term outcome of patients and the combination should be considered a standard of care."

Data from the ECHELON-1 trial demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in OS in adult patients with previously untreated Stage III or IV classical Hodgkin lymphoma treated with ADCETRIS plus doxorubicin, vinblastine and dacarbazine (A+AVD) vs. doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (ABVD). With approximately six years median follow up (73 months), patients receiving A+AVD had a 41 percent reduction in the risk of death (hazard ratio [HR] 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.396 to 0.879), with an estimated OS rate (95% CI) of 93.9% (91.6, 95.5) at 6 years. The safety profile of ADCETRIS was consistent with previous studies, and no new safety signals were observed. Please see Important Safety Information, including a SPECIAL/BOXED WARNING for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), for ADCETRIS below.

"Patients with advanced-stage Hodgkin lymphoma have not benefitted from an improvement in overall survival outcomes for far too long," said Chris Arendt, Ph.D., Head of Oncology Cell Therapy and Therapeutic Area Unit, Research and Development, at Takeda. "We are extremely proud of the results of the ECHELON-1 trial, as these findings represent a transformative improvement in care that can profoundly impact the lives of patients with advanced-stage disease. We look forward to sharing the data with regulators around the world."

"These data unequivocally demonstrate the ability of the ADCETRIS combination regimen to improve upon a current standard of care, ABVD, for people with Hodgkin lymphoma by delivering an unsurpassed overall survival benefit," said Roger Dansey, M.D., Interim CEO and Chief Medical Officer, Seagen. "We continue to evaluate the potential of ADCETRIS in different patient populations and in combination with other approved and investigational medicines."

ADCETRIS is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated Stage III or IV classical Hodgkin lymphoma in combination with AVD in the United States and for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated CD30-positive Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma in combination with AVD in Europe.

First-line brentuximab vedotin plus chemotherapy to improve overall survival in patients with stage III/IV classical Hodgkin lymphoma: An updated analysis of ECHELON-1. (Hematologic Malignancies—Lymphoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia on Friday, June 3, 2022, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM CT at McCormick Place, Hall A8)

Key findings, which will be presented by Dr. Ansell, include:

The trial achieved its key secondary endpoint with the combination of A+AVD, resulting in a statistically significant improvement in OS versus the control arm of ABVD as assessed by an Independent Review Facility (IRF) (HR 0.59; p-value=0.009). This corresponds to a 41 percent reduction in the risk of death.
At a median follow up of 73 months, 39 and 64 OS events occurred in the A+AVD and ABVD arms, respectively.
Estimated six-year OS rates (95% CI) were 93.9% (91.6, 95.5) with A+AVD vs. 89.4% (86.6, 91.7) with ABVD.
Subgroup analyses supported a consistent benefit for A+AVD vs. ABVD.
The six-year PFS estimate (95% CI) was 82.3% (79.1, 85.0) with A+AVD vs. 74.5% (70.8, 77.7) with ABVD.
A+AVD resulted in a manageable safety profile consistent with prior reports.
Treatment-emergent peripheral neuropathy continued to resolve or improve in both arms, with 86% (379/443) and 87% (249/286) of patients in the A+AVD and ABVD arms, respectively, either completely resolving (72% vs. 79%) or improving (14% vs. 8%) by last follow up.
Fewer patients reported second malignancies in the A+AVD vs. ABVD arm (23 vs. 32).
No new safety signals were identified.
About the ECHELON-1 Trial

The ECHELON-1 trial, which compared the use of ADCETRIS in combination with AVD to ABVD in 1,334 patients with previously untreated Stage III or IV classical Hodgkin lymphoma, had a primary endpoint of modified progression-free survival (PFS) per independent review facility (IRF). A key secondary endpoint was OS, which was an event-driven, pre-specified, alpha-controlled analysis in the intention-to-treat population.

About Hodgkin Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a general term for a group of cancers that originate in the lymphatic system affecting a type of white blood cell called lymphocytes. There are two major categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma is distinguished from other types of lymphoma by the presence of one characteristic type of cell, known as the Reed-Sternberg cell present in lymph nodes. Reed-Sternberg cells usually have a special protein on their surface called CD30, which is a key marker of HL. CD30 is present in approximately 95 percent of all cases of Hodgkin lymphoma.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 8,540 cases of Hodgkin lymphoma will be diagnosed in the United States during 2022 and more than 900 will die from the disease. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, as of 2020, over 83,000 people worldwide were diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and approximately 23,000 people died from this cancer.i

About ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin)

ADCETRIS is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) comprising an anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody attached by a protease-cleavable linker to a microtubule disrupting agent, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), utilizing Seagen’s proprietary technology. The ADC employs a linker system that is designed to be stable in the bloodstream but to release MMAE upon internalization into CD30-positive tumor cells.

ADCETRIS injection for intravenous infusion has received FDA approval for six indications in adult patients with: (1) previously untreated systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL) or other CD30-expressing peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL), including angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma and PTCL not otherwise specified, in combination with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone, (2) previously untreated Stage III or IV classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), in combination with doxorubicin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine, (3) cHL at high risk of relapse or progression as post-autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT) consolidation, (4) cHL after failure of auto-HSCT or failure of at least two prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimens in patients who are not auto-HSCT candidates, (5) sALCL after failure of at least one prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimen, and (6) primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (pcALCL) or CD30-expressing mycosis fungoides (MF) who have received prior systemic therapy.

Health Canada granted ADCETRIS approval with conditions for relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma and sALCL in 2013, and non-conditional approval for post-autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) consolidation treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma patients at increased risk of relapse or progression in 2017, adults with pcALCL or CD30-expressing MF who have had prior systemic therapy in 2018, for previously untreated Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma in combination with doxorubicin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine in 2019, and for previously untreated adult patients with sALCL, peripheral T-cell lymphoma-not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS) or angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL), whose tumors express CD30, in combination with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, prednisone in 2019.

ADCETRIS received conditional marketing authorization from the European Commission in October 2012. The approved indications in Europe are: (1) for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated CD30-positive Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma in combination with doxorubicin, vinblastine and dacarbazine (AVD), (2) for the treatment of adult patients with CD30-positive Hodgkin lymphoma at increased risk of relapse or progression following ASCT, (3) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD30-positive Hodgkin lymphoma following ASCT, or following at least two prior therapies when ASCT or multi-agent chemotherapy is not a treatment option, (4) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory sALCL, and (5) for the treatment of adult patients with CD30-positive cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) after at least one prior systemic therapy.

ADCETRIS has received marketing authorization by regulatory authorities in more than 70 countries for relapsed or refractory Hodgkin lymphoma and sALCL. See Important Safety Information below.

ADCETRIS is being evaluated broadly in more than 70 clinical trials, including a Phase 3 study in first-line Hodgkin lymphoma (ECHELON-1) and another Phase 3 study in first-line CD30-positive peripheral T-cell lymphomas (ECHELON-2), as well as trials in many additional types of CD30-positive malignancies.

Seagen and Takeda are jointly developing ADCETRIS. Under the terms of the collaboration agreement, Seagen has U.S. and Canadian commercialization rights and Takeda has rights to commercialize ADCETRIS in the rest of the world. Seagen and Takeda are funding joint development costs for ADCETRIS on a 50:50 basis, except in Japan where Takeda is solely responsible for development costs.

ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin) Important Safety Information (European Union)

Please refer to Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) before prescribing.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

ADCETRIS is contraindicated for patients with hypersensitivity to brentuximab vedotin and its excipients. In addition, combined use of ADCETRIS with bleomycin causes pulmonary toxicity.

SPECIAL WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): John Cunningham virus (JCV) reactivation resulting in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and death can occur in patients treated with ADCETRIS. PML has been reported in patients who received ADCETRIS after receiving multiple prior chemotherapy regimens. PML is a rare demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that results from reactivation of latent JCV and is often fatal.

Closely monitor patients for new or worsening neurological, cognitive, or behavioral signs or symptoms, which may be suggestive of PML. Suggested evaluation of PML includes neurology consultation, gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis for JCV DNA by polymerase chain reaction or a brain biopsy with evidence of JCV. A negative JCV PCR does not exclude PML. Additional follow up and evaluation may be warranted if no alternative diagnosis can be established. Hold dosing for any suspected case of PML and permanently discontinue ADCETRIS if a diagnosis of PML is confirmed.

Be alert to PML symptoms that the patient may not notice (e.g., cognitive, neurological, or psychiatric symptoms).

Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis has been observed in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Fatal outcomes have been reported. Closely monitor patients for new or worsening abdominal pain, which may be suggestive of acute pancreatitis. Patient evaluation may include physical examination, laboratory evaluation for serum amylase and serum lipase, and abdominal imaging, such as ultrasound and other appropriate diagnostic measures. Hold ADCETRIS for any suspected case of acute pancreatitis. ADCETRIS should be discontinued if a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis is confirmed.

Pulmonary Toxicity: Cases of pulmonary toxicity, some with fatal outcomes, including pneumonitis, interstitial lung disease, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), have been reported in patients receiving ADCETRIS. Although a causal association with ADCETRIS has not been established, the risk of pulmonary toxicity cannot be ruled out. Promptly evaluate and treat new or worsening pulmonary symptoms (e.g., cough, dyspnoea) appropriately. Consider holding dosing during evaluation and until symptomatic improvement.

Serious infections and opportunistic infections: Serious infections such as pneumonia, staphylococcal bacteremia, sepsis/septic shock (including fatal outcomes), and herpes zoster, cytomegalovirus (CMV) (reactivation) and opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and oral candidiasis have been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Patients should be carefully monitored during treatment for the emergence of possible serious and opportunistic infections.

Infusion-related reactions (IRR): Immediate and delayed IRR, as well as anaphylaxis, have been reported with ADCETRIS. Carefully monitor patients during and after an infusion. If anaphylaxis occurs, immediately and permanently discontinue administration of ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy. If an IRR occurs, interrupt the infusion and institute appropriate medical management. The infusion may be restarted at a slower rate after symptom resolution. Patients who have experienced a prior IRR should be premedicated for subsequent infusions. IRRs are more frequent and more severe in patients with antibodies to ADCETRIS.

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS): TLS has been reported with ADCETRIS. Patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden are at risk of TLS. Monitor these patients closely and manage according to best medical practice.

Peripheral neuropathy (PN): ADCETRIS treatment may cause PN, both sensory and motor. ADCETRIS-induced PN is typically an effect of cumulative exposure to ADCETRIS and is reversible in most cases. Monitor patients for symptoms of neuropathy, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain, or weakness. Patients experiencing new or worsening PN may require a delay and a dose reduction or discontinuation of ADCETRIS.

Hematological toxicities: Grade 3 or Grade 4 anemia, thrombocytopenia, and prolonged (equal to or greater than one week) Grade 3 or Grade 4 neutropenia can occur with ADCETRIS. Monitor complete blood counts prior to administration of each dose.

Febrile neutropenia: Febrile neutropenia has been reported with ADCETRIS. Complete blood counts should be monitored prior to administration of each dose of treatment. Closely monitor patients for fever and manage according to best medical practice if febrile neutropenia develops.

When ADCETRIS is administered in combination with AVD or CHP, primary prophylaxis with G-CSF is recommended for all patients beginning with the first dose.

Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs): Cases of SCARs, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) have been reported with ADCETRIS. Fatal outcomes have been reported for SJS and TEN. If SJS, TEN or DRESS occur, ADCETRIS should be discontinued and appropriate medical therapy should be administered.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Complications: GI complications, some with fatal outcomes, including intestinal obstruction, ileus, enterocolitis, neutropenic colitis, erosion, ulcer, perforation and haemorrhage, have been reported with ADCETRIS. Promptly evaluate and treat patients if new or worsening GI symptoms occur.

Hepatotoxicity: Elevations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) have been reported with ADCETRIS. Serious cases of hepatotoxicity, including fatal outcomes, have also occurred. Pre-existing liver disease, comorbidities, and concomitant medications may also increase the risk. Test liver function prior to treatment initiation and routinely monitor during treatment. Patients experiencing hepatotoxicity may require a delay, dose modification, or discontinuation of ADCETRIS.

Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia has been reported during trials in patients with an elevated body mass index (BMI) with or without a history of diabetes mellitus. Closely monitor serum glucose for patients who experience an event of hyperglycemia. Administer anti-diabetic treatment as appropriate.

Infusion site extravasation: Extravasation during intravenous infusion has occurred. Given the possibility of extravasation, it is recommended to closely monitor the infusion site for possible infiltration during drug administration.

Renal and Hepatic Impairment: There is limited experience in patients with renal and hepatic impairment. Available data indicate that MMAE clearance might be affected by severe renal impairment, hepatic impairment, and by low serum albumin concentrations.

CD30+ CTCL: The size of the treatment effect in CD30 + CTCL subtypes other than mycosis fungoides (MF) and primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (pcALCL) is not clear due to lack of high level evidence. In two single arm phase II studies of ADCETRIS, disease activity has been shown in the subtypes Sézary syndrome (SS), lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) and mixed CTCL histology. These data suggest that efficacy and safety can be extrapolated to other CTCL CD30+ subtypes. Carefully consider the benefit-risk per patient and use with caution in other CD30+ CTCL patient types.

Sodium content in excipients: This medicinal product contains 13.2 mg sodium per vial, equivalent to 0.7% of the WHO recommended maximum daily intake of 2 g sodium for an adult.

Traceability: In order to improve the traceability of biological medicinal products, the name and the batch number of the administered product should be clearly recorded.

INTERACTIONS

Patients who are receiving a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor, concomitantly with ADCETRIS may have an increased risk of neutropenia. If neutropenia develops, refer to dosing recommendations for neutropenia (see SmPC section 4.2). Co-administration of ADCETRIS with a CYP3A4 inducer did not alter the plasma exposure of ADCETRIS, but it appeared to reduce plasma concentrations of MMAE metabolites that could be assayed. ADCETRIS is not expected to alter the exposure to drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes.

PREGNANCY: Advise women of childbearing potential to use two methods of effective contraception during treatment with ADCETRIS and until 6 months after treatment. There are no data from the use of ADCETRIS in pregnant women, although studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity. Do not use ADCETRIS during pregnancy unless the benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risks to the fetus.

LACTATION (breast-feeding): There are no data as to whether ADCETRIS or its metabolites are excreted in human milk, therefore a risk to the newborn/infant cannot be excluded. With the potential risk, a decision should be made whether to discontinue breast-feeding or discontinue/abstain from therapy with ADCETRIS.

FERTILITY: In nonclinical studies, ADCETRIS treatment has resulted in testicular toxicity, and may alter male fertility. Advise men being treated with ADCETRIS not to father a child during treatment and for up to 6 months following the last dose.

Effects on ability to drive and use machines: ADCETRIS may have a moderate influence on the ability to drive and use machines.

UNDESIRABLE EFFECTS

Monotherapy: The most frequent adverse reactions (≥10%) were infections, peripheral sensory neuropathy, nausea, fatigue, diarrhoea, pyrexia, upper respiratory tract infection, neutropenia, rash, cough, vomiting, arthralgia, peripheral motor neuropathy, infusion-related reactions, pruritus, constipation, dyspnoea, weight decreased, myalgia and abdominal pain. Serious adverse drug reactions occurred in 12% of patients. The frequency of unique serious adverse drug reactions was ≤1%. Adverse events led to treatment discontinuation in 24% of patients.

Combination Therapy: In the studies of ADCETRIS as combination therapy in 662 patients with previously untreated advanced HL and 223 patients with previously untreated CD30+ PTCL, the most common adverse reactions (≥ 10%) were: infections, neutropenia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, nausea, constipation, vomiting, diarrhoea, fatigue, pyrexia, alopecia, anaemia, weight decreased, stomatitis, febrile neutropenia, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, insomnia, bone pain, rash, cough, dyspnoea, arthralgia, myalgia, back pain, peripheral motor neuropathy, upper respiratory tract infection, and dizziness. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 34% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurring in ≥ 3% of patients included febrile neutropenia (15%), pyrexia (5%), and neutropenia (3%). Adverse events led to treatment discontinuation in 10% of patients.

ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin) for injection U.S. Important Safety Information

BOXED WARNING

PROGRESSIVE MULTIFOCAL LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY (PML): JC virus infection resulting in PML and death can occur in ADCETRIS-treated patients.

Contraindication

ADCETRIS concomitant with bleomycin due to pulmonary toxicity (e.g., interstitial infiltration and/or inflammation).

Warnings and Precautions

Peripheral neuropathy (PN): ADCETRIS causes PN that is predominantly sensory. Cases of motor PN have also been reported. ADCETRIS-induced PN is cumulative. Monitor for symptoms such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain, or weakness. Institute dose modifications accordingly.
Anaphylaxis and infusion reactions: Infusion-related reactions (IRR), including anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Monitor patients during infusion. If an IRR occurs, interrupt the infusion and institute appropriate medical management. If anaphylaxis occurs, immediately and permanently discontinue the infusion and administer appropriate medical therapy. Premedicate patients with a prior IRR before subsequent infusions. Premedication may include acetaminophen, an antihistamine, and a corticosteroid.
Hematologic toxicities: Fatal and serious cases of febrile neutropenia have been reported with ADCETRIS. Prolonged (≥1 week) severe neutropenia and Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia or anemia can occur with ADCETRIS.
Administer G-CSF primary prophylaxis beginning with Cycle 1 for patients who receive ADCETRIS in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated Stage III/IV cHL or previously untreated PTCL.

Monitor complete blood counts prior to each ADCETRIS dose. Monitor more frequently for patients with Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Monitor patients for fever. If Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia develops, consider dose delays, reductions, discontinuation, or G-CSF prophylaxis with subsequent doses.

Serious infections and opportunistic infections: Infections such as pneumonia, bacteremia, and sepsis or septic shock (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. Closely monitor patients during treatment for bacterial, fungal, or viral infections.
Tumor lysis syndrome: Closely monitor patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden.
Increased toxicity in the presence of severe renal impairment: The frequency of ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions and deaths was greater in patients with severe renal impairment compared to patients with normal renal function. Avoid use in patients with severe renal impairment.
Increased toxicity in the presence of moderate or severe hepatic impairment: The frequency of ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions and deaths was greater in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment compared to patients with normal hepatic function. Avoid use in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment.
Hepatotoxicity: Fatal and serious cases have occurred in ADCETRIS-treated patients. Cases were consistent with hepatocellular injury, including elevations of transaminases and/or bilirubin, and occurred after the first ADCETRIS dose or rechallenge. Preexisting liver disease, elevated baseline liver enzymes, and concomitant medications may increase the risk. Monitor liver enzymes and bilirubin. Patients with new, worsening, or recurrent hepatotoxicity may require a delay, change in dose, or discontinuation of ADCETRIS.
PML: Fatal cases of JC virus infection resulting in PML have been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. First onset of symptoms occurred at various times from initiation of ADCETRIS, with some cases occurring within 3 months of initial exposure. In addition to ADCETRIS therapy, other possible contributory factors include prior therapies and underlying disease that may cause immunosuppression. Consider PML diagnosis in patients with new-onset signs and symptoms of central nervous system abnormalities. Hold ADCETRIS if PML is suspected and discontinue ADCETRIS if PML is confirmed.
Pulmonary toxicity: Fatal and serious events of noninfectious pulmonary toxicity, including pneumonitis, interstitial lung disease, and acute respiratory distress syndrome, have been reported. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms, including cough and dyspnea. In the event of new or worsening pulmonary symptoms, hold ADCETRIS dosing during evaluation and until symptomatic improvement.
Serious dermatologic reactions: Fatal and serious cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) have been reported with ADCETRIS. If SJS or TEN occurs, discontinue ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy.
Gastrointestinal (GI) complications: Fatal and serious cases of acute pancreatitis have been reported. Other fatal and serious GI complications include perforation, hemorrhage, erosion, ulcer, intestinal obstruction, enterocolitis, neutropenic colitis, and ileus. Lymphoma with preexisting GI involvement may increase the risk of perforation. In the event of new or worsening GI symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, perform a prompt diagnostic evaluation and treat appropriately.
Hyperglycemia: Serious cases, such as new-onset hyperglycemia, exacerbation of pre-existing diabetes mellitus, and ketoacidosis (including fatal outcomes) have been reported with ADCETRIS. Hyperglycemia occurred more frequently in patients with high body mass index or diabetes. Monitor serum glucose and if hyperglycemia develops, administer anti-hyperglycemic medications as clinically indicated.
Embryo-fetal toxicity: Based on the mechanism of action and animal studies, ADCETRIS can cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to the fetus, and to avoid pregnancy during ADCETRIS treatment and for at least 6 months after the final dose of ADCETRIS.
Most Common (≥20% in any study) Adverse Reactions

Peripheral neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, neutropenia, upper respiratory tract infection, pyrexia, constipation, vomiting, alopecia, decreased weight, abdominal pain, anemia, stomatitis, lymphopenia, and mucositis.

Drug Interactions

Concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers has the potential to affect the exposure to monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE).

Use in Specific Populations

Moderate or severe hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment: MMAE exposure and adverse reactions are increased. Avoid use. Advise males with female sexual partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during ADCETRIS treatment and for at least 6 months after the final dose of ADCETRIS.

Advise patients to report pregnancy immediately and avoid breastfeeding while receiving ADCETRIS.

Aura Biosciences Announces Publication of Preclinical Data of the Combination of VDCs with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors at the 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting

On May 26, 2022 Aura Biosciences Inc. (NASDAQ: AURA), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a novel class of virus-like drug conjugate (VDC) therapies for multiple oncology indications, reported the publication of preclinical data on AU-011, its first VDC product candidate, in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors. AU-011 is being developed for the treatment of life-threatening cancers with high unmet need, including primary choroidal melanoma and non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) (Press release, Aura Biosciences, MAY 26, 2022, View Source [SID1234615130]). The abstract has been published online as part of the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, being held June 3-7, 2022, in Chicago, IL.

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"These data show that AU-011, a first in class VDC, in combination with immune checkpoint inhibition is effective against both primary tumors and distant metastases in a preclinical model, demonstrating its clinical potential for the treatment of choroidal melanoma and certain other cancers. This includes the potential to treat both the primary tumor in early-stage disease and to treat metastatic lesions, whether clinically present or not at initial treatment." "We are so appreciative of our collaboration with the scientists and clinicians at Leiden University Medical Center in The Netherlands, one of the top European clinical and research centers in ocular oncology," said Dr. Cadmus Rich, Chief Medical officer and Head of R&D of Aura Biosciences.

"It is promising to see the results of these experiments, as we have shown that in murine models, the previously observed positive effects of AU-011 as a single agent could be enhanced with the addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors," said Dr. Martine Jager, Professor of Ophthalmology at Leiden University. "In addition, we show that not only the primary tumor, but also distant lesions, are targeted. Our survival data in murine models show that the combination of VDCs with immune checkpoint inhibitors is a potential new treatment modality that may generate a potent targeted cytotoxicity on local tumors as well as potential metastases."

Abstract details:

Title: A novel Virus-Like-Drug Conjugate (VDC) in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of primary tumors and distant metastasis
Authors: Ruben Victor Huis in ‘t Veld1, Sen Ma1, Rhonda Kines2, Anneli Savinainen2, Cadmus Collins Rich2, Ferry Ossendorp3, Martine Jager1; 1Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands; 2Aura Biosciences, Cambridge, MA; 3Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
Session Category: Publication – 2022 ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting Proceedings
Session Title: Developmental Therapeutics – Immunotherapy
Abstract Number: e14544
The published abstract is available here.

Flatiron Health Announces Research to be Presented at American Society of Clinical Oncology 2022 Annual Meeting

On May 26, 2022 Flatiron Health reported three Flatiron-authored abstracts have been accepted for poster discussion and presentations at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, to be held June 3-7 (Press release, Flatiron Health, MAY 26, 2022, View Source [SID1234615129]).

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Early/Late Stage Pipeline Development - Target Scouting - Clinical Biomarkers - Indication Selection & Expansion - BD&L Contacts - Conference Reports - Combinatorial Drug Settings - Companion Diagnostics - Drug Repositioning - First-in-class Analysis - Competitive Analysis - Deals & Licensing

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"As demonstrated by our research at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) this year, we are at the forefront of our industry to improve patient lives through the power of integrated evidence, and are committed to advance equitable care for all patients," said Carolyn Starrett, Flatiron CEO. "At Flatiron, we are reimagining the infrastructure of cancer care. We bring together science, technology, and medicine to transform possibilities into results and solve critical challenges with our partners."

Highlights include:

an investigation that uses one of the largest real-world datasets with a telemedicine variable available to assess patterns of use among patients with cancer during the COVID pandemic, illuminating health inequity
a study that uses integrated evidence to quantify the clinical value of multi-gene testing in early-stage lung adenocarcinoma, showcasing potential benefit in treatment decision-making
a study that evaluates and understands the value of ctDNA as a non-invasive tool to treat patients with advanced NSCLC by leveraging the Flatiron Health-Foundation Medicine Clinico-Genomic Database
Read more about the research on the Evidence Desk.

Poster Discussions and Presentations

Racial and Socioeconomic Disparities in Telemedicine Use Among US Patients Initiating Cancer Treatment During the COVID-19 Pandemic
First author: Jenny Guadamuz, Xiaoliang Wang, Trevor J. Royce, Gregory S. Calip
Abstract: 6511

A real-world evidence study quantifying the clinical value of multi-gene testing in early-stage lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD)
Partner: Foundation Medicine
First author: Nathan Pennell, Lianliang Zhang, Katherine T. Lofgren, Bharathi Muthusamy, Emily Castellanos, Karen Schwed, Oliver Humblet, Alexa B. Schrock, Geoffrey R. Oxnard
Abstract: 8525

ctDNA Shed and Outcomes for Patients (pts) with Advanced Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (aNSCLC) Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICPI)
Partner: Foundation Medicine
First author: Benjamin Besse, Russell W. Madison, Cheryl Cho-Phan, Jermey Snider, Tamara Snow, Filippo G Dall’Olio, Khaled Tolba, Alexa B. Schrock, Geoffrey R. Oxnard
Abstract: 9045

4D pharma Presents Trial in Progress Poster on Study of MRx0518 in Combination with BAVENCIO® in Patients with Unresectable Locally Advanced or Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting

On May 26, 2022 4D pharma plc (AIM: DDDD, NASDAQ: LBPS), a pharmaceutical company leading the development of Live Biotherapeutic products (LBPs), a novel class of drug derived from the microbiome, reported the presentation of a trial in progress poster from the Phase II clinical trial of MRx0518 in combination with BAVENCIO (avelumab), a PD-L1 blocking antibody, as a first-line maintenance therapy for patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma that has not progressed with first-line platinum-containing chemotherapy, at the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting in Chicago, IL (Press release, 4d Pharma, MAY 26, 2022, View Source [SID1234615128]).

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"We are continuing to build a strong body of evidence to support MRx0518 as a novel immunotherapy with broad potential to address significant unmet need across multiple oncology indications," said Dr Alex Stevenson, Chief Scientific Officer at 4D pharma. "MRx0518 has previously demonstrated single agent immuno-modulation of the tumor microenvironment, and this data supports the potential of this combination to significantly enhance and improve outcomes for patients beyond treatment with BAVENCIO alone. Not only are we able to evaluate MRx0518 with a leading immune checkpoint inhibitor, we are also able to assess its potential in earlier treatment settings. We are pleased to be sharing further details on the design of our first-line maintenance study with BAVENCIO for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma with the oncology medical community at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper)."

Poster Presentation Details:
Poster Title: Trial in progress: A phase II switch maintenance study of live biotherapeutic MRx0518 and avelumab in patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) who did not progress on first-line platinum-containing chemotherapy
Presenting Author: Amishi Y. Shah MD, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
Session Title: Genitourinary Cancer – Kidney and Bladder
Abstract Number: TPS4610
Poster Number: 95a
Date and Time: Saturday, June 4, 2022 at 13:15 CDT

Highlights from the trial in progress poster include:

The multi-center study (NCT05107427) will enroll 30 patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Patients must have measurable disease after a partial response (PR) or stable disease (SD) on 4-6 cycles of platinum-containing induction chemotherapy.
Patients will receive intravenous BAVENCIO (avelumab) every two weeks, in combination with one oral capsule of MRx0518 twice daily, until disease progression, patient withdrawal, or unacceptable toxicity.
In addition to assessing the safety of the combination of MRx0518 with BAVENCIO, the study will assess the effect of the combination on progression-free survival (PFS) at 6 months.
Secondary objectives are to assess other efficacy measures including objective response rate (ORR), time to response, duration of response (DOR), disease control rate (DCR), PFS, and overall survival (OS).
Immunological changes of the microbiome and metabolome will be assessed through biopsies, longitudinal blood sampling and stool and urine samples.
The study is being conducted in collaboration with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany and Pfizer Inc.
Study sites are open for patient enrolment.
The poster will be available on the "Posters & Publications" section of the 4D pharma website at www.4dpharmaplc.com.

About MRx0518

MRx0518 is single strain Live Biotherapeutic Product (LBP) in development for the treatment of cancer. It is delivered as an oral capsule and stimulates the body’s immune system, directing it to produce cytokines and immune cells that are known to attack tumors. It is currently being evaluated in four clinical trials in patients with solid tumors. MRx0518-I-001 is a neoadjuvant monotherapy study in a variety of solid tumors and is being conducted at Imperial College (London, UK). MRx0518-I-002 is in combination with KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) in patients with acquired resistance to prior anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint therapies. The Coordinating Investigator of the study is at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, USA, with multiple additional sites in the US. The study is being conducted in collaboration with MSD, the tradename of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA. MRx0518-I-003 is in combination with preoperative radiotherapy in resectable pancreatic cancer. MRx0518-004 (AVENU) is a Phase II clinical trial of MRx0518 in combination with BAVENCIO (avelumab) in the first-line maintenance setting for urothelial carcinoma, conducted in collaboration with Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany and Pfizer Inc.

Clinical Data Demonstrating Promising Antitumor Activity with Zanidatamab in 1L Setting of HER2‑Positive Breast and Gastroesophageal Cancers to be Presented at ASCO 2022

On May 26, 2022 Zymeworks Inc. (NYSE: ZYME), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing next-generation multifunctional biotherapeutics, reported new clinical data for the HER2‑targeted bispecific antibody zanidatamab in both HER2-positive breast cancer and gastric/gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (Press release, Zymeworks, MAY 26, 2022, View Source [SID1234615127]). The data are being presented in two separate poster sessions at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting June 3-7, 2022 in Chicago, IL.

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"These encouraging new data sets presented at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) provide further validation of zanidatamab’s potential in the treatment of advanced HER2-positive cancers and follow the release of other promising data in gastroesophageal and breast cancer in 2021," said Neil Josephson, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Zymeworks. "These new data continue to demonstrate the potential for zanidatamab to be an important advancement in the treatment of a wide range of HER2-expressing cancers, including in first-line treatment regimens."

The presentations detailed below are available to conference registrants on the ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) conference website as well as to the general public at www.zymeworks.com/publications.

Poster Session: Zanidatamab in Combination with Chemotherapy and Tislelizumab in HER2-Positive Gastric/Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer – Clinical Results – Saturday, June 4, 08:00-11:00 am CDT

Zanidatamab, a HER2-targeted bispecific antibody, in combination with chemotherapy and tislelizumab as first-line therapy for patients with advanced HER2-positive gastric/gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (G/GJEC): Preliminary results from a Phase 1b/2 study

Presenter: Keun Wook Lee, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Republic of Korea

Over one million patients are diagnosed with gastric cancer every year worldwide, and it is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths1. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive disease accounts for 15–25% of gastric cancers2. For these patients, trastuzumab in combination with chemotherapy is the global standard of care treatment but with an expected overall survival of less than 18 months, there remains a significant unmet need.

In 33 response-evaluable patients with advanced HER2-positive gastric/gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma treated with zanidatamab and tislelizumab in combination with the CAPOX chemotherapy regimen the cORR was 75.8% (25/33). The DCR was 100% (33/33) and duration of response (DOR) ranged from 2.1+ to 18.2+ months. Twenty patients (61%) remain on study at the time of data cut-off.

In addition, the data demonstrate that zanidatamab and tislelizumab in combination with the CAPOX chemotherapy is generally well tolerated, with the majority of treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) considered mild to moderate in severity (Grade 1 or 2). The most common grade ≥ 3 TRAE was diarrhea, which was manageable in the outpatient setting; introduction of prophylactic loperamide reduced the incidence from 33% to 21%. Immune mediated adverse events occurred in 27% of patients, including ≥ Grade 3 events in 21% of patients and resulted in discontinuation of tislelizumab in 3 patients (9%). This manageable safety profile compares favorably to the current standard of care as well as to emerging treatments and is consistent with previous reports.3

This new data set further supports the launch of Zymeworks’ global Phase 3 study (HERIZON-GEA-01; NCT05152147), which is investigating zanidatamab in combination with chemotherapy with or without tislelizumab for first-line treatment of locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic HER2-positive gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma. Zymeworks, along with its Asia-Pacific partner BeiGene, plan to enroll 714 patients at approximately 300 sites across 38 countries. Enrollment is expected to be completed by the end of 2023. The study design will be presented in a Trials in Progress poster (Poster ID: P-26) at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) (Free ESMO Whitepaper) World Congress on Gastrointestinal Cancer taking place in Barcelona, Spain from June 29-July 2, 2022. The presentation will be available to conference registrants on the conference website as well as to the general public at www.zymeworks.com/publications at the time of presentation at the conference.

Poster Session: Zanidatamab in Combination with Docetaxel in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer – Clinical Results – Monday, June 6, 08:00-11:00 am CDT

Zanidatamab, a HER2-targeted bispecific antibody, in combination with docetaxel as first-line therapy for patients with advanced HER2-positive breast cancer: Preliminary results from a Phase 1b/2 study

Presenter: Keun Seok Lee, National Cancer Center, Center for Breast Cancer, Goyang, Republic of Korea

Worldwide, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths in women, with over 650,000 deaths in 20201,4. HER2-positive breast cancer accounts for approximately 20% of all breast cancers5,6,7. Though HER2-targeted agents have improved outcomes in HER2-positive breast cancer, most patients treated for advanced disease eventually relapse and develop resistant disease8,9.

In 21 response-evaluable patients with advanced HER2-positive breast cancer treated with zanidatamab and docetaxel the cORR was 90.5%, with 15 patients (78.9%) having an ongoing response at the time of the data cut. The median follow-up was 7.0 months (range 1.1-17.4 months) and the six-month progression-free survival rate was 95.2%.

The combination of zanidatamab and docetaxel had a manageable safety profile with the incidence of TRAEs consistent with standard of care therapy. The most common TRAEs were neutrophil count decreased (13 patients; 54.2%), diarrhea (13 patients; 54.2%), and anemia (nine patients; 37.5%), and the most common ≥ Grade 3 TRAEs were neutrophil count decreased (12 patients; 50.0%), diarrhea (3 patients; 12.5%), and white blood cell count decreased (2 patients; 8.3%).

"We will continue to support ongoing R&D efforts to generate and report robust data highlighting and reinforcing the potential applications of our therapeutics and technology platforms in the treatment of a wide range of diseases," said Kenneth Galbraith, Chair and CEO of Zymeworks. "We remain focused on exploring potential research and collaboration opportunities that can lead to a broader portfolio of innovative therapies for patients in need around the world with difficult-to-treat cancers."

Conference Call and Webcast

Zymeworks will host a conference call and webcast on Monday, June 6th at 4:30 pm ET to discuss the clinical data presented at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) and provide an overview on the clinical development strategy for zanidatamab. The event will be led by Kenneth Galbraith, Zymeworks’ Chair and CEO, and Neil Josephson, M.D., Zymeworks’ Chief Medical Officer. Members of Zymeworks’ executive team will be available to answer questions at the conclusion of the call.

Interested parties can access the live webcast via the Zymeworks’ website at View Source A recorded replay will be accessible after the event through the Zymeworks website.

About Zanidatamab

Zanidatamab is a bispecific antibody, based on Zymeworks’ Azymetric platform, that can simultaneously bind two non-overlapping epitopes of HER2, known as biparatopic binding. This unique design results in multiple mechanisms of action including dual HER2 signal blockade, increased binding, and removal of HER2 protein from the cell surface, and potent effector function leading to encouraging antitumor activity in patients. Zymeworks is developing zanidatamab in multiple Phase 1, Phase 2, and pivotal clinical trials globally as a targeted treatment option for patients with solid tumors that express HER2. The FDA has granted Breakthrough Therapy designation for zanidatamab in patients with previously treated HER2 gene-amplified biliary tract cancer (BTC), and two Fast Track designations to zanidatamab, one as a single agent for refractory BTC and one in combination with standard of care chemotherapy, for first-line gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA). These designations mean zanidatamab is eligible for Accelerated Approval, Priority Review and Rolling Review, as well as intensive FDA guidance on an efficient drug development program. Zanidatamab has also received Orphan Drug designations for the treatment of biliary tract, gastric and ovarian cancers, as well as Orphan Drug designation for the treatment of gastric cancer from the European Medicines Agency.