PharmaMar will present at ESMO results of the phase III CORAIL study with lurbinectedin in platinum-resistant Ovarian Cancer

On October 18, 2018 During the congress of the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) (Free ESMO Whitepaper), that will be held from the 19th to the 23rd of October in Munich, Germany, PharmaMar’s (MSE:PHM) Zepsyre (lurbinectedin) abstract #9320 entitled "Phase III trial of Lurbinectedin versus PLD or Topotecan in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer patients: Results of CORAIL trial" will be presented orally on the 19th of October (Press release, PharmaMar, OCT 18, 2018, View Source [SID1234529959]).

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Dr. Ali Zeaiter, Director of Clinical Development of the Oncology Business Unit at PharmaMar explains: "While we are disappointed that the CORAIL trial didn´t meet its primary endpoint of PFS, the data obtained support that lurbinectedin has activity in platinum-resistant Ovarian Cancer."

Data obtained from other PharmaMar compounds of marine origin, lurbinectedin and Yondelis (trabectedin) will also be presented. These include four other posters with the latest advances in the clinical development of trabectedin, including the results of the randomized phase III (TSAR) study evaluating the quality of life of patients with Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcoma (ASTS).

The studies that will be presented during the ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) 2018 Congress are available at: View Source

Lurbinectedin

Phase III trial of Lurbinectedin versus PLD or Topotecan in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer patients: Results of CORAIL trial (#932O)
Oral presentation – 19.10.2018, 14:00 – 15:15, in Hall A1 – Room 15.
Principal Author: S. Gaillard, Baltimore, US.

SAKK 17/16 – Lurbinectedin monotherapy in patients with progressive malignant pleural mesothelioma: A multicenter, single-arm phase II trial (#1817TiP)
Poster – 20.10.2018, 13:30 Hall A3 – Poster Area – Networking Hub
Principal Author: Y. Metaxas. Chur, Switzerland.

Yondelis (trabectedin)

Health-related quality of life in patients with advanced soft tissue sarcoma (ASTS): Results from the TSAR randomized phase III trial of the French Sarcoma Group (#1604PD)
Poster Discussion – Sarcoma. 22.10.2018, 11:00 – 12:15, in Hall B3 – Room 23
Principal Author: Axel Le Cesne, Villejuif, France.

Quality of Life in patients with soft tissue sarcoma undergoing palliative treatment – A multicenter, cluster-randomized trial within the German Interdisciplinary Sarcoma Group, GISG-12 (#1606PD)
Poster Discussion – Sarcoma. 22.10.2018, 11:00 – 12:15, in Hall B3 – Room 23
Principal Author: Leopold Hentschel, Dresden, Germany.

Trabectedin and radiotherapy in advanced sarcoma: experience of a Reference Center (#1626P)
Poster – 22.10.2018, 12:45 – 13:45, in Hall A3 – Poster Area Networking Hub
Principal Author: Javier Martín-Broto, Seville, Spain.

Trabectedin plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) in patients with platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer (PSROC) regardless of prior use of antiangiogenics: First results of an observational, prospective study (#987P)
Poster – 20.10.2018, 12:30 – 13:30, in Hall A3 – Poster Area Networking Hub
Principal Author: Sandro Pignata, Naples, Italy.

Legal warning
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of that jurisdiction.

About PharmaMar
Headquartered in Madrid, PharmaMar is a biopharmaceutical company, focused on oncology and committed to research and development which takes its inspiration from the sea to discover molecules with antitumor activity. It is a company that seeks innovative products to provide healthcare professionals with new tools to treat cancer. Its commitment to patients and to research has made it one of the world leaders in the discovery of antitumor drugs of marine origin.
PharmaMar has a pipeline of drug candidates and a robust R&D oncology program. It develops and commercializes Yondelis in Europe and has other clinical-stage programs under development for several types of solid cancers: lurbinectedin (PM1183), PM184 and PM14. With subsidiaries in Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Austria and the United States. PharmaMar wholly owns other companies: GENOMICA, a molecular diagnostics company; Sylentis, dedicated to researching therapeutic applications of gene silencing (RNAi); and a chemical enterprise, Zelnova Zeltia. To learn more about PharmaMar, please visit us at www.pharmamar.com.

About YONDELIS (trabectedin)
YONDELIS (trabectedin) is a multimodal, synthetically produced antitumor agent, originally derived from the sea squirt, Ecteinascidia turbinata. The drug exerts its activity by targeting the transcriptional machinery and impairing DNA repair. It is approved in close to 80 countries in North America, Europe, South America and Asia for the treatment of advanced soft tissue sarcomas as a single-agent and for relapsed ovarian cancer in combination with DOXIL/CAELYX (doxorubicin HCl liposome injection) in the European Union. Under a licensing agreement with PharmaMar, Janssen Products, L.P. has the rights to develop and sell YONDELIS globally except in Europe, where PharmaMar holds the rights, and in Japan, where PharmaMar has granted a license to Taiho Pharmaceuticals.

About lurbinectedin
Lurbinectedin (PM1183) is a compound under clinical investigation. It is an inhibitor of RNA polymerase II. This enzyme is essential for the transcription process that is over-activated in tumors with transcription addiction.

Merck’s KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) in Combination with Pfizer’s Inlyta® (axitinib) Significantly Improved Overall Survival (OS) and Progression-free Survival (PFS) as First-Line Therapy for Advanced or Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

On October 18, 2018 Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, reported that the pivotal Phase 3 KEYNOTE-426 trial investigating KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab), Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, in combination with Inlyta (axitinib), Pfizer’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor, met both primary endpoints of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in the first-line treatment of advanced or metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the most common type of kidney cancer (Press release, Merck & Co, OCT 18, 2018, View Source [SID1234529958]). Based on the first interim analysis by the independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMC), the KEYTRUDA plus Inlyta combination resulted in statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in OS and PFS, compared to sunitinib monotherapy. The study also met the key secondary endpoint of objective response rate (ORR), with significant improvements for the KEYTRUDA and Inlyta combination compared with sunitinib monotherapy. Results for OS, PFS and ORR were consistent regardless of PD-L1 expression and across all risk groups. The safety profile of KEYTRUDA and Inlyta in this trial was generally consistent with that observed in previously reported studies for each therapy. These results will be presented at an upcoming medical meeting and submitted to regulatory authorities worldwide.

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"KEYTRUDA, in combination with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor Inlyta, resulted in significant and clinically meaningful improvements in overall survival, progression-free survival and objective response in this Phase 3 study. This marks the first time that combination treatment with an anti-PD-1 therapy has achieved the dual primary endpoints of overall survival and progression-free survival as first-line therapy in advanced renal cell carcinoma," said Dr. Roger M. Perlmutter, president, Merck Research Laboratories. "Fewer than 10 percent of those diagnosed with advanced renal cell carcinoma survive for five years, and hence there is significant need for improved therapies for this disease. We are very grateful to the investigators and patients for their involvement in this important study, the results of which will be filed with global regulatory authorities in the near future."

About KEYNOTE-426
KEYNOTE-426 is a randomized, double-arm, Phase 3 trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02853331) evaluating the safety and efficacy of KEYTRUDA in combination with Inlyta as first-line treatment for advanced or metastatic RCC compared to sunitinib. The dual primary endpoints of the study were OS and PFS, and the key secondary endpoint was ORR. Additional secondary endpoints were disease control rate (DCR), number of participants who experienced or discontinued the study due to an adverse event (AE), duration of response (DOR), PFS at 12, 18 and 24 months and OS at 12, 18 and 24 months. In the trial, 861 patients were randomly assigned to receive KEYTRUDA 200 mg intravenously every three weeks plus Inlyta 5 mg orally twice daily for up to 24 months, or sunitinib 50 mg orally once daily for four weeks followed by no treatment for two weeks, continuously.

About Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC)
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is by far the most common type of kidney cancer; about 9 out of 10 kidney cancers are renal cell carcinomas. RCC is about twice as common in men as in women. Modifiable risk factors include smoking, obesity, workplace exposure to certain substances and high blood pressure. There are expected to be approximately 403,262 cases of kidney cancer diagnosed worldwide in 2018 and about 175,098 people will die from the disease. In the U.S. alone, there will be an estimated 63,340 new cases of kidney cancer diagnosed in 2018 and about 14,970 people will die from the disease

About KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) Injection, 100mg
KEYTRUDA is an anti-PD-1 therapy that works by increasing the ability of the body’s immune system to help detect and fight tumor cells. KEYTRUDA is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumor cells and healthy cells.

Merck has the industry’s largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 850 trials studying KEYTRUDA across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. The KEYTRUDA clinical program seeks to understand the role of KEYTRUDA across cancers and the factors that may predict a patient’s likelihood of benefitting from treatment with KEYTRUDA, including exploring several different biomarkers.

KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) Indications and Dosing
Melanoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Lung Cancer

KEYTRUDA, in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations.

KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors have high PD-L1 expression [Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) ≥50%] as determined by an FDA-approved test, with no EGFR or ALKgenomic tumor aberrations.

KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is also indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors express PD-L1 (TPS ≥1%) as determined by an FDA-approved test, with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving KEYTRUDA.

In metastatic NSCLC, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

When administering KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy, KEYTRUDA should be administered prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. See also the Prescribing Information for pemetrexed and carboplatin or cisplatin, as appropriate.

Head and Neck Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. In HNSCC, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), or who have relapsed after three or more prior lines of therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. In adults with cHL, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression. In pediatric patients with cHL, KEYTRUDA is administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 200 mg) every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Primary Mediastinal Large B-Cell Lymphoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with refractory primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL), or who have relapsed after 2 or more prior lines of therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials. KEYTRUDA is not recommended for the treatment of patients with PMBCL who require urgent cytoreductive therapy.

In adults with PMBCL, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression. In pediatric patients with PMBCL, KEYTRUDA is administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 200 mg) every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Urothelial Carcinoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) who are not eligible for cisplatin-containing chemotherapy and whose tumors express PD-L1 [Combined Positive Score (CPS) ≥10] as determined by an FDA-approved test, or in patients who are not eligible for any platinum-containing chemotherapy regardless of PD-L1 status. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

KEYTRUDA is also indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy or within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy.

In locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Microsatellite Instability-High (MSI-H) Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with unresectable or metastatic microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR)

solid tumors that have progressed following prior treatment and who have no satisfactory alternative treatment options, or
colorectal cancer that has progressed following treatment with fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan.
This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. The safety and effectiveness of KEYTRUDA in pediatric patients with MSI-H central nervous system cancers have not been established.

In adult patients with MSI-H cancer, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression. In children with MSI-H cancer, KEYTRUDA is administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 200 mg) every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Gastric Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent locally advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 [Combined Positive Score (CPS) ≥1] as determined by an FDA-approved test, with disease progression on or after two or more prior lines of therapy including fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy and if appropriate, HER2/neu-targeted therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. The recommended dose of KEYTRUDA is a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Cervical Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer with disease progression on or after chemotherapy whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS ≥1) as determined by an FDA-approved test. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. The recommended dose of KEYTRUDA is a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Selected Important Safety Information for KEYTRUDA

Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis
KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis, including fatal cases. Pneumonitis occurred in 3.4% (94/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 1 (0.8%), 2 (1.3%), 3 (0.9%), 4 (0.3%), and 5 (0.1%), and occurred more frequently in patients with a history of prior thoracic radiation (6.9%) compared to those without (2.9%). Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of pneumonitis. Evaluate suspected pneumonitis with radiographic imaging. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater pneumonitis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2; permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 or recurrent Grade 2 pneumonitis.

Immune-Mediated Colitis
KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated colitis. Colitis occurred in 1.7% (48/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.4%), 3 (1.1%), and 4 (<0.1%). Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of colitis. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater colitis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2 or 3; permanently discontinue for Grade 4 colitis.

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis
KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated hepatitis. Hepatitis occurred in 0.7% (19/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.1%), 3 (0.4%), and 4 (<0.1%). Monitor patients for changes in liver function. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater hepatitis and, based on severity of liver enzyme elevations, withhold or discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies
KEYTRUDA can cause hypophysitis, thyroid disorders, and type 1 diabetes mellitus. Hypophysitis occurred in 0.6% (17/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.2%), 3 (0.3%), and 4 (<0.1%). Hypothyroidism occurred in 8.5% (237/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (6.2%) and 3 (0.1%). The incidence of new or worsening hypothyroidism was higher in patients with HNSCC occurring in 15% (28/192) of patients. Hyperthyroidism occurred in 3.4% (96/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.8%) and 3 (0.1%), and thyroiditis occurred in 0.6% (16/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.3%). Type 1 diabetes mellitus, including diabetic ketoacidosis, occurred in 0.2% (6/2799) of patients.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hypophysitis (including hypopituitarism and adrenal insufficiency), thyroid function (prior to and periodically during treatment), and hyperglycemia. For hypophysitis, administer corticosteroids and hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2 and withhold or discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 hypophysitis. Administer hormone replacement for hypothyroidism and manage hyperthyroidism with thionamides and beta-blockers as appropriate. Withhold or discontinue KEYTRUDA for Grade 3 or 4 hyperthyroidism. Administer insulin for type 1 diabetes, and withhold KEYTRUDA and administer anti-hyperglycemics in patients with severe hyperglycemia.

Immune-Mediated Nephritis and Renal Dysfunction
KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated nephritis. Nephritis occurred in 0.3% (9/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.1%), 3 (0.1%), and 4 (<0.1%) nephritis. Nephritis occurred in 1.7% (7/405) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy. Monitor patients for changes in renal function. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater nephritis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2; permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 nephritis.

Immune-Mediated Skin Reactions
Immune-mediated rashes, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) (some cases with fatal outcome), exfoliative dermatitis, and bullous pemphigoid, can occur. Monitor patients for suspected severe skin reactions and based on the severity of the adverse reaction, withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA and administer corticosteroids. For signs or symptoms of SJS or TEN, withhold KEYTRUDA and refer the patient for specialized care for assessment and treatment. If SJS or TEN is confirmed, permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions
Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue in patients receiving KEYTRUDA and may also occur after discontinuation of treatment. For suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, ensure adequate evaluation to confirm etiology or exclude other causes. Based on the severity of the adverse reaction, withhold KEYTRUDA and administer corticosteroids. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Based on limited data from clinical studies in patients whose immune-related adverse reactions could not be controlled with corticosteroid use, administration of other systemic immunosuppressants can be considered. Resume KEYTRUDA when the adverse reaction remains at Grade 1 or less following corticosteroid taper. Permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA for any Grade 3 immune-mediated adverse reaction that recurs and for any life-threatening immune-mediated adverse reaction.

The following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred in less than 1% (unless otherwise indicated) of 2799 patients: arthritis (1.5%), uveitis, myositis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, myasthenia gravis, vasculitis, pancreatitis, hemolytic anemia, sarcoidosis, and encephalitis. In addition, myelitis and myocarditis were reported in other clinical trials and postmarketing use.

Treatment with KEYTRUDA may increase the risk of rejection in solid organ transplant recipients. Consider the benefit of treatment vs the risk of possible organ rejection in these patients.

Infusion-Related Reactions
KEYTRUDA can cause severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions, including hypersensitivity and anaphylaxis, which have been reported in 0.2% (6/2799) of patients. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions. For Grade 3 or 4 reactions, stop infusion and permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Complications of Allogenic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)
Immune-mediated complications, including fatal events, occurred in patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT after treatment with KEYTRUDA. Of 23 patients with cHL who proceeded to allogeneic HSCT after KEYTRUDA, 6 developed graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) (one fatal case) and 2 developed severe hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) after reduced-intensity conditioning (one fatal case). Cases of fatal hyperacute GVHD after allogeneic HSCT have also been reported in patients with lymphoma who received a PD-1 receptor–blocking antibody before transplantation. Follow patients closely for early evidence of transplant-related complications such as hyperacute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), Grade 3 to 4 acute GVHD, steroid-requiring febrile syndrome, hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD), and other immune-mediated adverse reactions.

In patients with a history of allogeneic HSCT, acute GVHD (including fatal GVHD), has been reported after treatment with KEYTRUDA. Patients who experienced GVHD after their transplant procedure may be at increased risk for GVHD after KEYTRUDA. Consider the benefit of KEYTRUDA vs the risk of GVHD in these patients.

Increased Mortality in Patients with Multiple Myeloma
In clinical trials in patients with multiple myeloma, the addition of KEYTRUDA to a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone resulted in increased mortality. Treatment of these patients with a PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody in this combination is not recommended outside of controlled clinical trials.

Embryofetal Toxicity
Based on its mechanism of action, KEYTRUDA can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. If used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant during treatment, apprise the patient of the potential hazard to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use highly effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of KEYTRUDA.

Adverse Reactions
In KEYNOTE-006, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 9% of 555 patients with advanced melanoma; adverse reactions leading to permanent discontinuation in more than one patient were colitis (1.4%), autoimmune hepatitis (0.7%), allergic reaction (0.4%), polyneuropathy (0.4%), and cardiac failure (0.4%). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) with KEYTRUDA were fatigue (28%), diarrhea (26%), rash (24%), and nausea (21%).

In KEYNOTE-189, when KEYTRUDA was administered with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy in metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 20% of 405 patients. The most common adverse reactions resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA were pneumonitis (3%) and acute kidney injury (2%). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) with KEYTRUDA were nausea (56%), fatigue (56%), constipation (35%), diarrhea (31%), decreased appetite (28%), rash (25%), vomiting (24%), cough (21%), dyspnea (21%), and pyrexia (20%).

In KEYNOTE-010, KEYTRUDA monotherapy was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 682 patients with metastatic NSCLC. The most common adverse event resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA was pneumonitis (1.8%). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were decreased appetite (25%), fatigue (25%), dyspnea (23%), and nausea (20%).

In KEYNOTE-012, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 17% of 192 patients with HNSCC. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 45% of patients. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients were pneumonia, dyspnea, confusional state, vomiting, pleural effusion, and respiratory failure. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue, decreased appetite, and dyspnea. Adverse reactions occurring in patients with HNSCC were generally similar to those occurring in patients with melanoma or NSCLC, with the exception of increased incidences of facial edema and new or worsening hypothyroidism.

In KEYNOTE-087, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 5% of 210 patients with cHL. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 16% of patients; those ≥1% included pneumonia, pneumonitis, pyrexia, dyspnea, GVHD, and herpes zoster. Two patients died from causes other than disease progression; one from GVHD after subsequent allogeneic HSCT and one from septic shock. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue (26%), pyrexia (24%), cough (24%), musculoskeletal pain (21%), diarrhea (20%), and rash (20%).

In KEYNOTE-170, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 53 patients with PMBCL. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 26% of patients and included arrhythmia (4%), cardiac tamponade (2%), myocardial infarction (2%), pericardial effusion (2%), and pericarditis (2%). Six (11%) patients died within 30 days of start of treatment. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were musculoskeletal pain (30%), upper respiratory tract infection and pyrexia (28% each), cough (26%), fatigue (23%), and dyspnea (21%).

In KEYNOTE-052, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 11% of 370 patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 42% of patients; those ≥2% were urinary tract infection, hematuria, acute kidney injury, pneumonia, and urosepsis. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue (38%), musculoskeletal pain (24%), decreased appetite (22%), constipation (21%), rash (21%), and diarrhea (20%).

In KEYNOTE-045, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 266 patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. The most common adverse reaction resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA was pneumonitis (1.9%). Serious adverse reactions occurred in 39% of KEYTRUDA-treated patients; those ≥2% were urinary tract infection, pneumonia, anemia, and pneumonitis. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in patients who received KEYTRUDA were fatigue (38%), musculoskeletal pain (32%), pruritus (23%), decreased appetite (21%), nausea (21%), and rash (20%).

In KEYNOTE-158, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 98 patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 39% of patients receiving KEYTRUDA; the most frequent included anemia (7%), fistula, hemorrhage, and infections [except urinary tract infections] (4.1% each). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue (43%), musculoskeletal pain (27%), diarrhea (23%), pain and abdominal pain (22% each), and decreased appetite (21%).

Lactation
It is not known whether KEYTRUDA is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, instruct women to discontinue nursing during treatment with KEYTRUDA and for 4 months after the final dose.

Pediatric Use
There is limited experience in pediatric patients. In a study in 40 pediatric patients with advanced melanoma, lymphoma, or PD-L1–positive advanced, relapsed, or refractory solid tumors, the safety profile was similar to that seen in adults treated with KEYTRUDA. Toxicities that occurred at a higher rate (≥15% difference) in these patients when compared to adults under 65 years of age were fatigue (45%), vomiting (38%), abdominal pain (28%), hypertransaminasemia (28%), and hyponatremia (18%).

Chi-Med Initiates a Phase I Trial of HMPL-523 in Combination with Azacitidine in Elderly Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in China

On October 18, 2018 Hutchison China MediTech Limited ("Chi-Med") (AIM/Nasdaq: HCM) reported that it has initiated a Phase I study of HMPL-523, its novel spleen tyrosine kinase ("Syk") inhibitor, in combination with azacitidine, an approved nucleoside metabolic inhibitor, in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia ("AML") in China (Press release, Hutchison China MediTech, OCT 18, 2018, https://www.chi-med.com/phasei-hmpl523-azacitidine-aml-china/ [SID1234529956]).

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This is a Phase I, open-label, non-randomized, multicenter study to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy of the combination in previously untreated elderly patients with AML who are not eligible for standard induction therapy. The primary outcome measures are overall response rate (ORR) and adverse events (AE). The two-stage study will have a dose escalation and dose expansion stage. Additional details about this study may be found at clinicaltrials.gov, using identifier NCT03483948.

This study complements the ongoing Phase Ib dose expansion program of HMPL-523 in a broad range of hematological cancers in Australia (clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02503033) and China (clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02857998). These include chronic lymphocytic leukemia, small lymphocytic lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia. Chi-Med targets to present dose escalation results at a major scientific conference later in 2018 or in 2019. Chi-Med’s U.S. Investigational New Drug (IND) application for HMPL-523 in hematological cancers was cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at the end of June 2018 and hence Chi-Med is now planning for proof-of-concept development in the U.S.

About Syk
Syk is a non-receptor cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase primarily expressed in cells of hematopoietic lineage. Constitutive activation of Syk in AML has been reported and targeted inhibition of Syk demonstrated anti-leukemia activity in AML mouse models. Syk has also been shown to directly phosphorylate the FLT3 receptor, modulating its activation and possibly promoting its role in leukemogenesis.

About AML
AML, a cancer of blood and bone marrow characterized by rapid disease progression, is the most common acute leukemia. Undifferentiated blast cells proliferate in the bone marrow rather than mature into normal blood cells. AML occurs in children and adults of all ages, but is primarily a disease of older adults, with a median age at diagnosis of 67 years. AML is universally fatal without treatment, with a median survival of approximately two months.[i] The vast majority of patients do not respond to chemotherapy and progress to relapsed/refractory AML. The five-year survival rate for AML is approximately 27%.[ii]

Combination chemotherapy regimens with or without hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are a mainstay of therapy for patients with newly diagnosed AML. Older patients with newly diagnosed AML who are ineligible for intensive chemotherapy typically have poor outcomes and few available treatment options. There is a clear need for new treatments for AML.

Invenra Secures $7M in Series B Growth Round to Accelerate Bispecific Antibody Development

On October 17, 2018 Invenra, an antibody drug discovery and development company with novel multispecific platforms and product candidates, reported the close of a $7M Series B financing round (Press release, Invenra, OCT 17, 2018, View Source [SID1234570587]). The financing will be used to expand the company to meet growing demand for partnerships using its’ B-Body multispecific technology as well as continuing development of its internal pipeline.

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Venture Investors led the round with participation from existing investors including Series A leader Wisconsin Investment Partners. The State of Wisconsin Investment Board (SWIB) also joined as a new investor. Additionally, Paul Weiss, Managing Director at Venture Investors, will join Invenra’s Board of Directors.

"Invenra’s discovery and development platform for bispecific antibodies has the potential to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of immuno-oncology", said Paul Weiss. "We already knew the capability of the team from our experience in backing Roland Green and members of the Board at NimbleGen Systems. We look forward to the opportunity to work together again on the important mission of Invenra."

Roland Green, CEO of Invenra, says "Invenra is excited to have Venture Investors and SWIB as part of our team. We look forward to working with Paul on our board as we develop our pipeline and partnerships. The additional funding will allow us to further leverage the B-Body platform for the high-throughput assessment of multispecific antibodies. This throughput and performance unlocks new and important therapeutic targets and mechanisms of action that were previously impractical through traditional methods. This funding along with milestones from partnerships will allow us to advance the preclinical development of our lead product candidates, namely our Biparatopic OX40 Agonist B-Body program and our tumor-specific Treg depleter SNIPER program."

Nordic Nanovector ASA: Change of Date for Q3 2018 Results Presentation and Webcast

On October 17, 2018 Nordic Nanovector ASA (OSE: NANO) reported it will present its results for the third quarter 2018 on Tuesday, 6 November 2018 (previously scheduled for Tuesday, 21 November), and will host a results presentation and webcast on the same day (details will be announced nearer the time) (Press release, Nordic Nanovector, OCT 17, 2018, View Source [SID1234553492]).

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During this presentation, the Company will present updated clinical results from the LYMRIT 37-01 trial with Betalutin in relapsed/refractory indolent non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients. These results will be published on 1 November in an abstract* that will be presented in a poster at the 60th American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting & Exposition (1-4 December 2018).

As a consequence of the change in date of the third quarter 2018 results presentation, the Company will enter its two-week ‘quiet period’ starting on the 23 October 2018.

In addition, the Company has decided it will not continue hosting separate presentations of the results in Norwegian.

*ASH abstract

Title: LYMRIT 37-01: A phase I/II study of 177Lu-lilotomab satetraxetan (Betalutin) antibody-radionuclide-conjugate (ARC) for the treatment of relapsed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) – Analysis with 6-month follow-up

Authors: A. Kolstad, et al.

The abstract will be published on 1 November 2018 at 09:00am Eastern time at View Source