Seattle Genetics Highlights Vadastuximab Talirine (SGN-CD33A) Data in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) at the 21st Congress of the European Hematology Association

On June 11, 2016 Seattle Genetics, Inc. (NASDAQ: SGEN) reported data at the 21st Congress of the European Hematology Association (EHA) (Free EHA Whitepaper) taking place in Copenhagen, Denmark, June 9-12, 2016, evaluating vadastuximab talirine (SGN-CD33A; 33A) in combination with hypomethylating agents (HMAs; azacitidine, decitabine) in frontline patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who had declined intensive therapy (Press release, Seattle Genetics, JUN 11, 2016, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2176948 [SID:1234513211]). 33A is an investigational antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeted to CD33 utilizing Seattle Genetics’ newest technology, comprising an engineered cysteine antibody (EC-mAb) stably linked to a highly potent DNA binding agent called a pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD) dimer. CD33 is expressed on leukemic blasts in nearly all AML patients with expression generally consistent regardless of age, cytogenetic abnormalities or underlying mutations.

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Based on data from the ongoing phase 1 clinical trial, a phase 3 clinical trial, called CASCADE, was recently initiated evaluating 33A in combination with HMAs in previously untreated AML patients not candidates for intensive induction chemotherapy. Seattle Genetics is also evaluating 33A broadly across multiple lines of therapy in patients with myeloid malignancies, including ongoing and planned phase 1 and 2 clinical trials for newly diagnosed or relapsed AML and for previously untreated myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). More information about 33A and ongoing clinical trials can be found at www.ADC-CD33.com.

"Hypomethylating agents, or HMAs, are the current standard of care for AML patients who are not able to tolerate intensive therapy. HMAs have limited benefit, with low response rates and median overall survival of 10 months or less," said Jonathan Drachman, M.D., Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President, Research and Development at Seattle Genetics. "We believe that adding 33A to HMAs may improve efficacy and has the potential to redefine the treatment of AML. The clinical data at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) showing high response rate, manageable tolerability profile and low early mortality reported have been maintained in this larger data set, and support our recently initiated phase 3 CASCADE clinical trial, which is now enrolling patients."

"There is a dire need to improve outcomes for patients with AML," said Amir Fathi, M.D., investigator of the phase 1 trial who will present the data at EHA (Free EHA Whitepaper). "The anti-leukemic activity we have observed in the phase 1 clinical trial evaluating 33A combination therapy in AML patients continues to be encouraging. This is an incredibly difficult disease to treat and the results to-date continue to show a balance of activity and tolerability together with low early mortality rates. The data presented suggest that the addition of 33A improves the rates of response and durable remissions in comparison to that seen historically from using the current standard of care alone."

SGN-CD33A in Combination with Hypomethylating Agents: A Novel, Well-Tolerated Regimen with High Remission Rate in Older Patients with AML (Abstract #S503, oral presentation on Saturday, June 11, 2016 at 4:30 p.m. CEST)

Outcomes for AML patients who are not candidates for intensive chemotherapy or allogeneic stem cell transplant are dismal. Low intensity treatment options, including HMAs (azacitidine and decitabine), are limited. Interim results from the first 25 patients in the ongoing phase 1 study evaluating 33A in combination with HMAs in frontline AML were presented at the 2015 American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting and Exposition. Updated interim results from the ongoing phase 1 study were presented in an oral session at EHA (Free EHA Whitepaper).

Data were reported from 53 frontline unfit AML patients with a median age of 75 years and intermediate or adverse cytogenetic risk who had declined intensive therapy. Forty-five percent of patients had evidence of underlying myelodysplasia. Key findings presented by Dr. Fathi include:

Of 49 efficacy-evaluable patients treated with 33A combined with either azacitidine or decitabine, the overall response rate was 76 percent. Complete remission (CR) or complete remission with incomplete platelet or neutrophil recovery (CRi) was observed in 35 patients (71 percent). The remission rate (CR+CRi) was similar between the two 33A and HMA combination treatment groups (71 percent combined with azacitidine and 72 percent combined with decitabine).
Responses were observed in higher-risk patients, with remissions achieved in 16 of 22 patients (73 percent) with underlying myelodysplasia and 15 of 18 patients (83 percent) with adverse cytogenetics.
Patients who achieved minimal residual disease included eight of 19 (42 percent) CR patients and five of 15 (33 percent) CRi patients.
The median overall survival for all patients in the phase 1 trial is interim and expected to evolve. The estimated median overall survival for the first 25 patients enrolled in the study was 12.75 months, with a median follow-up of 12.58 months.
Median relapse-free survival was 7.7 months (range, 0.0+ and 11.3+) with 27 patients (51 percent) remaining alive and on study as of last follow-up. The 30- and 60-day mortality rates were two and eight percent, respectively.
The most common treatment-related adverse events of any grade occurring in 20 percent or more of patients were fatigue (57 percent), thrombocytopenia (53 percent), nausea (49 percent), febrile neutropenia (45 percent), and constipation and anemia (42 percent each). The most common Grade 3 or 4 treatment-emergent adverse events occurring in 20 percent or more of patients were febrile neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, anemia and fatigue.
About Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Acute myeloid leukemia, also called acute myelocytic leukemia or AML, is an aggressive type of cancer of the bone marrow and blood that progresses rapidly without treatment. AML is a cancer that starts in the cells that are supposed to mature into different types of blood cells. AML starts in the bone marrow (the interior part of bones, where new blood cells are made) and quickly moves into the blood. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2016 approximately 20,000 new cases of AML (mostly in adults) will be diagnosed and nearly 10,500 deaths will occur from AML (almost all will be in adults).

About Vadastuximab Talirine (SGN-CD33A)
Vadastuximab talirine (SGN-CD33A; 33A) is a novel investigational ADC targeted to CD33 utilizing Seattle Genetics’ newest ADC technology. CD33 is expressed on most AML and MDS blast cells. The CD33 antibody is attached to a highly potent DNA binding agent, a pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD) dimer, via a proprietary site-specific conjugation technology to a monoclonal antibody with engineered cysteines (EC-mAb). PBD dimers are significantly more potent than systemic chemotherapeutic drugs and the site-specific conjugation technology (EC-mAb) allows uniform drug-loading of the cell-killing PBD agent to the anti-CD33 antibody. The ADC is designed to be stable in the bloodstream and to release its potent DNA binding agent upon internalization into CD33-expressing cells.

33A was granted Orphan Drug Designation by both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission for the treatment of AML. FDA orphan drug designation is intended to encourage companies to develop therapies for the treatment of diseases that affect fewer than 200,000 individuals in the United States.

Results of Phase III study of volasertib for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia presented at European Hematology Association Annual Meeting

On June 11, 2016 Boehringer Ingelheim reported that the results of the Phase III POLO-AML-2 trial investigating volasertib plus chemotherapy (low dose cytarabine, LDAC), in the treatment of elderly acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients, did not meet the primary endpoint of objective response (Press release, Boehringer Ingelheim, JUN 11, 2016, View Source [SID:1234513209]). Boehringer Ingelheim is committed to further investigating volasertib with a revised research strategy based on the learnings of the trial, which demonstrated the compound’s anti-leukemic activity and an increased response rate.

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The results, presented at the 21st Annual Congress of the European Hematology Association (EHA) (Free EHA Whitepaper) 2016, showed the percentage of patients with an objective response was higher with volasertib plus LDAC, compared to placebo plus LDAC, but the difference was statistically not significant. The data showed an unfavorable overall survival trend for the experimental treatment arm, with the safety profile of the volasertib plus LDAC dosing regimen considered as the main reason for the trend.

Martin Stefanic, Medical Head, Early Clinical Development, Boehringer Ingelheim commented: "We are disappointed with the findings of the POLO-AML-2 trial after the encouraging results we observed in the Phase II trial. However, we believe in the potential of volasertib and new clinical studies have been initiated for AML patients, in addition to other areas of high unmet need such as higher risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The goal of these studies is to improve tolerability with modified dosing and scheduling of volasertib, while not compromising on efficacy, in order to achieve the best outcome for patients."

POLO-AML-2 (NCT01721876) is a randomized, double-blind, multi-center, controlled Phase III clinical trial of volasertib in combination with LDAC in 666 patients aged 65 years and older with newly diagnosed AML, not suitable for intensive induction therapy. The primary analysis showed a higher number of patients responded to volasertib plus LDAC (25.2%) than placebo plus LDAC (16.8%) but the overall result was not statistically significant.

There was a higher incidence of severe adverse events with volasertib plus LDAC, with a fatal infection frequency of 16.6% (volasertib plus LDAC) vs 5.1% (placebo plus LDAC) which was considered the main reason for a negative overall survival trend in the volasertib plus LDAC treatment arm compared to placebo plus LDAC (primary OS analysis: HR 1.26 [95% CI 0.95–1.67; p=0.113]; updated OS analysis (Nov 2015): HR 1.06 [95% CI 0.88–1.28; p=0.552]). The unblinded trial is still ongoing and updated results will be presented at a future scientific meeting when they are available.

Boehringer Ingelheim has a substantial program in hematological cancers with five investigational compounds in early clinical development.

About volasertib
Volasertib is an investigational compound that inhibits enzymes called Polo-like kinases (PLKs). Inhibition of PLK1 by volasertib ultimately results in cell death (apoptosis). By inhibiting PLK1 activity, the extremely high cell division that is characteristic of AML should be blocked, which may result in cancer regression.

Galena Biopharma Receives Two Orphan Drug Designations for GALE-301 and GALE-301/GALE-302

On June 10, 2016 Galena Biopharma, Inc. (NASDAQ:GALE), a biopharmaceutical company committed to the development and commercialization of targeted oncology therapeutics that address major unmet medical needs, reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted two orphan-drug designations for Galena’s two cancer immunotherapy peptides derived from Folate Binding Protein (FBP) for the treatment (including prevention of recurrence) of ovarian cancer: one for GALE-301 (E39), and one for GALE-301 (E39) and GALE-302 (E39’) (Press release, Galena Biopharma, JUN 10, 2016, View Source [SID:SID1234515198]). In clinical trials, GALE-301, and GALE-301/GALE-302 are combined with the immune adjuvant, granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) for the treatment of ovarian cancer in the adjuvant setting.

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"Ovarian cancer is a very aggressive disease with almost fifty percent of women recurring within five years after their initial treatment1," said Mark W. Schwartz, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer. "This designation supports our efforts to advance our FBP-targeted immunotherapy program consisting of GALE-301 and GALE-302 to prevent cancer recurrence in this underserved patient population."

The Orphan Drug Designation program provides orphan status to drugs and biologics which are defined as those intended for the safe and effective treatment, diagnosis or prevention of rare diseases/disorders that affect fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S.2 Orphan designation qualifies the sponsor of the drug for various development incentives including marketing exclusivity in the U.S. for seven years after product approval3, tax credits, and exemption from the prescription drug user fee.
Sources: 1U.S. Ovarian Cancer View Source; 2FDA Website – Developing Products for Rare Diseases & Conditions; 3FDA Frequently Asked Questions on Patents and Exclusivity

About GALE-301 and GALE-302
GALE-301 and GALE-302 are cancer immunotherapies that consist of a peptide derived from Folate Binding Protein (FBP) combined with GM-CSF for the treatment (including prevention of recurrence) of ovarian cancer in the adjuvant setting. GALE-301 is the E39 peptide, while GALE-302 is an attenuated version of this peptide, known as E39’. FBP is a well-validated therapeutic target that is highly over-expressed in ovarian, endometrial and breast cancers, and is the source of immunogenic peptides that can stimulate cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) to recognize and destroy FBP-expressing cancer cells. Two trials are ongoing with FBP peptides in gynecological cancers: the GALE-301 Phase 2a portion of the Phase 1/2a clinical trial is ongoing in ovarian and endometrial adenocarcinomas (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01580696); the GALE-301 plus GALE-302 Phase 1b clinical trial is ongoing in breast and ovarian cancers (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02019524).

About Ovarian Cancer
New cases of ovarian cancer occur at an annual rate of 12.1 per 100,000 women in the U.S., with an estimated 21,290 cases for 2015. Although ovarian cancer represents about 1.3% of all cancers, it represents about 2.4% of all cancer deaths, or an estimated 14,180 deaths in 2015. Approximately 1.3% of women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer at some point during their lifetime (2010 – 2012 data). The prevalence of ovarian cancer in the U.S. is about 192,000 women, and the five-year survivorship for women with ovarian cancer is 45.6%.

Due to the lack of specific symptoms, the majority of ovarian cancer patients are diagnosed at later stages of the disease, with an estimated 75% of women presenting with advanced-stage (III or IV) disease. These patients have their tumors routinely surgically debulked to minimal residual disease, and then are treated with platinum- and/or taxane-based chemotherapy. While many patients respond to this treatment regimen and become clinically free-of-disease, the majority of these patients will relapse. Depending upon their level of residual disease, the risk for recurrence after completion of primary therapy ranges from 60% to 85%. Unfortunately for these women, once the disease recurs, treatment options are limited and the disease remains incurable.

Diadexus, Inc. to File Chapter 7

On June 10, 2016 Diadexus, Inc. (OTCQB: DDXS), a diagnostics company developing and commercializing products that aid in assessing the prognosis of cardiac disease, reported that it is filing for relief under Chapter 7 of Title 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code in order to initiate an orderly liquidation of the assets of the Company (Press release, diaDexus, JUN 10, 2016, View Source [SID:1234513213]). The Company has been notified that its lender, Oxford Finance LLC, exercised certain of its rights under the August 2014 Loan and Security Agreement, including with respect to acceleration of obligations and demand for repayment and the removal of all of the available cash and investments from the accounts of the Company.

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The Chapter 7 case will be filed in the US Bankruptcy Court for Northern District of California. Upon the filing, a Chapter 7 trustee will be appointed in the case and the assets of the Company will be liquidated in accordance with the bankruptcy code. Additional information on the process may be obtained through the bankruptcy court.

The Company has been in discussions with Oxford Finance LLC for several months in an attempt to restructure its current loan agreement and reduce near-term financial constraints on its business but has been unable to reach an agreement. As of March 31, 2016, $13.3 million in principal remained outstanding under the Loan and Security Agreement with Oxford. As part of this process, the Company engaged Alvarez & Marsal Healthcare Industry Group, LLC as its restructuring advisor.

The Company also announced that Leone Patterson, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) since March 2015, has notified Diadexus that she will be leaving effective immediately.

New Analyses From Pivotal Phase 3 Studies Show Kyprolis® (Carfilzomib) Allows Patients With Relapsed Multiple Myeloma To Live Longer Without Disease Progression

On June 10, 2016 Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) reported results from a post-hoc analysis of the pivotal Phase 3 ASPIRE study which highlighted the benefit of continued treatment with Kyprolis (carfilzomib) in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (KRd) in patients with relapsed multiple myeloma (Press release, Amgen, JUN 10, 2016, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2176931 [SID:1234513208]). Separate sub-analyses of the Phase 3 ENDEAVOR study further confirmed efficacy and depth of response benefits of Kyprolis plus dexamethasone (Kd). These results were presented at the 21st Congress of the European Hematology Association (EHA) (Free EHA Whitepaper).

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Results from the ASPIRE analysis showed that cumulative rates of complete response or better (>CR) continued to increase over time in the KRd arm, most quickly in the first 15 months of treatment. In addition, the progression-free survival (PFS) hazard ratio (HR) at 18 months was 0.58 (95 percent CI: 0.46-0.72), while the overall study HR at 31 months was 0.69 (95 percent CI: 0.57-0.83), possibly related to patients in the KRd arm receiving Kyprolis for a maximum of 18 months (EHA abstract #P275). Researchers assessed PFS HR at 18 months following discontinuation of Kyprolis treatment in the KRd arm per the trial protocol. The most common all grade treatment-related adverse events in the ASPIRE trial included neutropenia (34.2 percent), anemia (25.5 percent), fatigue (22.4 percent) and thrombocytopenia (22.4 percent).

Six additional abstracts presented at EHA (Free EHA Whitepaper) further demonstrate the benefit of Kyprolis-based regimens across a range of patient populations:

Data analyzed in four presentations across patient subgroups from the Phase 3 ENDEAVOR trial showed that patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who were treated with Kd achieved superior PFS compared to those receiving bortezomib plus dexamethasone (Vd). The subgroup analyses evaluated the Kyprolis combination based on prior treatment, cytogenetic risk status, age and in Asian patients, respectively (EHA abstracts #E1266, #E1267, #E1274 and #E1328).
A secondary analysis of data from the Phase 3 ENDEAVOR study found treatment with Kd compared to subcutaneous bortezomib led to prolonged PFS regardless of prior bortezomib treatment. The results suggest Kd has a favorable benefit-risk profile and delivers superior efficacy and improved clinical outcomes (EHA abstract #P659).
A separate presentation analyzed the efficacy and safety of Kyprolis according to baseline cytogenetic risk status, based on data from the Phase 3 ASPIRE trial in which KRd demonstrated a significant improvement in PFS compared to lenalidomide and dexamethasone alone (EHA abstract #P663).
"This week’s presentations at EHA (Free EHA Whitepaper) continue to confirm that compared to previous standard of care therapies, across patient populations and therapeutic combinations, treatment with Kyprolis can extend the time patients live without their disease progressing," said Sean E. Harper, M.D., executive vice president of Research and Development at Amgen. "This abundant clinical research provides substantive, meaningful evidence for Kyprolis as a foundational therapy for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma patients."

Abstracts are currently available on the EHA (Free EHA Whitepaper) website.

EHA Abstract #P275:
Carfilzomib, Lenalidomide, and Dexamethasone Versus Lenalidomide and Dexamethasone in Patients with Relapsed Multiple Myeloma: Analysis of Response and Progression-Free Survival Hazard Ratio Over Time
In this post-hoc analysis of data from the Phase 3 ASPIRE trial, researchers evaluated the time to cumulative >CR and PFS HR at 18 months from randomization for KRd-treated patients (n=396) versus Rd-treated patients (n=396). KRd and Rd patients were followed for a median of 31 and 30 months for PFS, respectively. Per trial protocol, Kyprolis was discontinued after 18 cycles (28 days/cycle), so optimal duration of KRd treatment was not determined. All patients continued to receive Rd treatment until disease progression.

A total of 126 and 37 patients in the KRd and Rd groups achieved ≥CR with sample median time from treatment start to ≥CR of 6.7 and 8.3 months, respectively. The increase in rate of ≥CR patients over time was greater in the KRd group than the Rd group, most notably in the first 15 months; cumulative ≥CR rates increased steadily thereafter.
The overall PFS HR in ASPIRE for KRd versus Rd was 0.69 (95 percent CI: 0.57-0.83). For the first 18 months, the PFS HR was 0.58 (95 percent CI: 0.46-0.72). The 18-month PFS HR was lower than the overall study PFS HR, possibly related to KRd patients receiving Kyprolis for a maximum of 18 months.
The most common all grade treatment-related adverse events in the ASPIRE trial included neutropenia (34.2 percent), anemia (25.5 percent), fatigue (22.4 percent) and thrombocytopenia (22.4 percent).
EHA Abstract #E1266: Carfilzomib and Dexamethasone Versus Bortezomib and Dexamethasone: Subgroup Analysis of the Phase 3 ENDEAVOR Study to Evaluate the Impact of Prior Treatment on Patients with Relapsed Multiple Myeloma
This subgroup analysis evaluated treatment with Kd versus Vd in patients after first relapse versus more than two prior lines of therapy, as well as the effect of previous exposure to bortezomib or lenalidomide.

For patients with prior bortezomib exposure, median PFS for Kd compared to Vd was 15.6 months versus 8.1 months, respectively (HR: 0.56; 95 percent CI: 0.44-0.73). For patients without prior bortezomib exposure, median PFS was not estimable (NE) for the Kd-treated patients versus 11.2 months for Vd-treated patients (HR: 0.48; 95 percent CI: 0.36-0.66). In patients with prior bortezomib exposure, overall response rates (ORRs) were 71.2 percent for Kd versus 60.3 percent for Vd (OR: 1.63; 95 percent CI: 1.12-2.36) and 83.6 percent for Kd compared to 65.3 percent for Vd (OR: 2.72; 95 percent CI: 1.72-4.31) in patients without prior bortezomib exposure.
For patients with prior lenalidomide exposure, median PFS for Kd-treated patients was 12.9 months compared to 7.3 months for Vd-treated patients (HR: 0.69; 95 percent CI: 0.52-0.92). For patients without prior lenalidomide exposure, median PFS for Kd-treated patients was 22.2 months compared to 10.2 months for Vd-treated patients (HR: 0.43; 95 percent CI: 0.32-0.56). For patients with prior lenalidomide exposure, ORRs were 70.1 percent for Kd versus 59.3 percent for Vd (OR: 1.60; 95 percent CI: 1.03-2.49), and 81.2 percent for Kd versus 64.6 percent for Vd (OR: 2.37; 95 percent CI: 1.62-3.47) in patients without prior lenalidomide exposure.
In patients with one prior line of therapy, grade 3 or higher adverse events were reported in 69.8 percent of patients in the Kd arm and 63.9 percent of patients in the Vd arm. In patients with two or more prior lines of therapy, grade 3 or higher adverse events were reported in 76.6 percent of patients in the Kd arm and 69.9 percent of patients in the Vd arm.
EHA Abstract #E1267: Carfilzomib and Dexamethasone Versus Bortezomib and Dexamethasone: Subgroup Analysis of Patients with Relapsed Multiple Myeloma by Baseline Cytogenetic Risk Status (Phase 3 ENDEAVOR Study)
This pre-planned subgroup analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety outcomes in patients treated with Kd versus Vd according to patients’ baseline cytogenetic risk status.

In the high-risk group, median PFS was 8.8 months (95 percent CI: 6.9-11.3) for Kd-treated patients (n=97) versus 6.0 months for Vd-treated patients (n=113) (95 percent CI: 4.9-8.1) (HR: 0.646; 95 percent CI: 0.453-0.921). ORRs (≥ partial response) were 72.2 percent for Kd-treated patients versus 58.4 percent for Vd-treated patients. Median duration of response was 10.2 months for Kd versus 8.3 months for Vd.
In the standard-risk group, median PFS was NE (95 percent CI: 18.7-NE) for Kd-treated patients (n=284) compared to 10.2 months (95 percent CI: 9.3-12.2) for Vd-treated patients (n=291) (HR: 0.439; 95 percent CI: 0.333-0.578). ORRs were 79.2 percent for Kd-treated patients versus 66.0 percent for Vd-treated patients. Median duration of response was NE for Kd versus 11.7 months for Vd.
Grade 3 or higher adverse events were reported at higher rates with Kd versus Vd in both the high and standard-risk groups (70.1 percent versus 63.1 percent and 73.9 percent versus 68.3 percent, respectively).
EHA Abstract #E1274: Carfilzomib and Dexamethasone Versus Bortezomib and Dexamethasone in Patients with Relapsed Multiple Myeloma: Analysis of the Phase 3 ENDEAVOR Study by Age Subgroup
This pre-planned subgroup analysis evaluated results of the ENDEAVOR study according to patients’ age (younger than 65, 65-74, and 75 and older). Of the 929 patients enrolled, 223 patients received Kd and 210 received Vd in the <65 years subgroup; 164 patients received Kd and 189 received Vd in the 65-74 years subgroup; and 77 patients received Kd and 66 received Vd in the ≥75 years subgroup.

For patients younger than 65 years, median PFS was NE for Kd-treated patients compared to 9.5 months for Vd-treated patients (HR: 0.58; 95 percent CI: 0.44-0.77). ORRs were 74 percent in the Kd arm versus 61 percent in the Vd arm (OR: 1.82; 95 percent CI: 1.21-2.74).
For patients aged 65–74 years, median PFS was 15.6 months for Kd-treated patients versus 9.5 months for Vd-treated patients (HR: 0.53; 95 percent CI: 0.38-0.73). ORRs were 77 percent in the Kd arm versus 66 percent in the Vd arm (OR: 1.80; 95 percent CI: 1.12-2.89).
For patients aged 75 years and older, median PFS was 18.7 months for Kd-treated patients versus 8.9 months for Vd-treated patients (HR: 0.38; 95 percent CI: 0.23-0.65). ORRs were 84 percent in the Kd arm versus 59 percent in the Vd arm (OR: 3.75; 95 percent CI: 1.71-8.24).
Grade ≥3 hypertension, dyspnea, cardiac failure, renal failure were more common with Kd versus Vd. Deaths within 30 days post-study drug due to adverse events occurred.
EHA Abstract #E1328: Outcomes for Asian Patients With Relapsed Multiple Myeloma Treated With Carfilzomib and Dexamethasone Versus Bortezomib and Dexamethasone: A Subgroup Analysis of the Phase 3 ENDEAVOR Study
This pre-planned subgroup analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety outcomes in Asian patients (n=109) with relapsed multiple myeloma from the ENDEAVOR study. The majority of patients were from Japan (n=44; 40.4 percent), followed by Taiwan (n=24; 22.0 percent), Singapore (n=20; 18.3 percent), Republic of Korea (n=16; 14.7 percent), and Thailand (n=5; 4.6 percent).

Median PFS follow-up was 8.4 months for Kd-treated patients and 7.6 months for Vd-treated patients. Median PFS was 14.9 months for Kd-treated patients (95 percent CI: 13.1-17.7) compared to 8.8 months for Vd-treated patients (95 percent CI: 6.6-NE) (HR: 0.57; 95 percent CI: 0.29-1.14), representing a greater than six month improvement.
The ORR was 79.6 percent in the Kd arm (95 percent CI: 66.5-89.4) versus 70.9 percent in the Vd arm (95 percent CI: 57.1-82.4) (OR: 1.604; 95 percent CI: 0.664-3.872). The proportion of patients who achieved a best overall response of a >CR was higher in the Kd arm (9.3 percent) versus the Vd arm (1.8 percent). The rate of very good partial response (VGPR) or greater in the Kd arm (63.0 percent) was more than twice of that in the Vd arm (23.6 percent).
Similar patient incidence rates of adverse events, grade 3 or higher adverse events, and grade 3 or higher treatment-related adverse events were observed between the Kd and Vd arms except for higher cardiovascular events and hypertension being observed in Kd arm.
EHA Abstract #P659: Carfilzomib and Dexamethasone Versus Subcutaneous Bortezomib and Dexamethasone in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma: Secondary Analysis from the Phase 3 Study ENDEAVOR
This subset analysis assessed the efficacy and safety of Kd compared to subcutaneous (SC) delivery of Vd, consistent with current standard of care, and the effect of prior exposure to bortezomib. The analysis compared Kd patients who had selected SC bortezomib delivery pre-randomization if randomized to the Vd arm (n=356) with Vd patients who used SC bortezomib (n=360).

Median PFS has not been reached for patients treated with Kd but was 9.5 months for Vd patients treated with SC bortezomib (HR: 0.58; 95 percent CI: 0.46-0.72). Median overall survival has not been reached for Kd but was 24.3 months for SC Vd (HR: 0.75; 95 percent CI: 0.53-1.08). ORRs were 76.1 percent for Kd-treated patients compared to 64.4 percent for SC Vd-treated patients.
For patients with prior bortezomib exposure, median PFS for Kd was 13.4 months compared to 8.4 months for SC Vd patients (HR: 0.66; 95 percent CI: 0.50-0.87). ORRs were 70.4 percent for Kd-treated patients and 62.1 percent for SC Vd-treated patients.
Grade 3 or higher adverse events were 74.4 percent in the Kd arm and 67.5 percent in the SC Vd arm. For patients with prior bortezomib exposure, grade 3 or higher adverse events were 71.8 percent in the Kd arm compared to 64.5 percent in the SC Vd arm.
EHA Abstract #P663: Efficacy and Safety by Cytogenetic Risk Status: Phase 3 Study (ASPIRE) of Carfilzomib, Lenalidomide and Dexamethasone Versus Lenalidomide and Dexamethasone in Patients with Relapsed Multiple Myeloma
This pre-planned subgroup analysis assessed the efficacy and safety of KRd compared with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Rd) according to baseline cytogenetic risk status in patients with relapsed multiple myeloma who had received one to three prior lines of therapy.

For high-risk patients (n=100) treated with KRd, median PFS was 23.1 months (95 percent CI: 12.5-24.2) compared to 13.9 months (95 percent CI: 9.5-16.7) for patients treated with Rd (HR: 0.639; 95 percent CI: 0.369-1.106). ORRs were 79.2 percent for patients treated with KRd versus 59.6 percent for Rd-treated patients.
In the standard risk group (n=317), median PFS was 29.6 months (95 percent CI: 24.1-NE) and 19.5 months (95 percent CI: 14.8-26.0), respectively (HR: 0.657; 95 percent CI: 0.480-0.901). ORRs for KRd-treated patients were 91.2 percent compared to 73.5 percent for patients treated with Rd.
Rates of grade 3 or higher adverse events were 89.1 percent for KRd-treated patients compared to 78.4 percent for Rd-treated patients in the high-risk group, and 85.6 percent for KRd-treated patients versus 84.5 percent for Rd-treated patients in the standard risk group.
About Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer, characterized by a recurring pattern of remission and relapse.1 It is a rare and very aggressive disease that accounts for approximately one percent of all cancers.2-4 In Europe, approximately 39,000 patients are diagnosed with multiple myeloma each year and 24,000 patient deaths are reported on an annual basis.2 Worldwide, more than 230,000 people are living with multiple myeloma.2

About Amgen’s Commitment to Oncology
Amgen Oncology is committed to helping patients take on some of the toughest cancers, such as those that have been resistant to drugs, those that progress rapidly through the body and those where limited treatment options exist. Amgen’s supportive care treatments help patients combat certain side effects of strong chemotherapy, and our targeted medicines and immunotherapies focus on more than a dozen different malignancies, ranging from blood cancers to solid tumors. With decades of experience providing therapies for cancer patients, Amgen continues to grow its portfolio of innovative and biosimilar oncology medicines.

About Kyprolis (carfilzomib)
Proteasomes play an important role in cell function and growth by breaking down proteins that are damaged or no longer needed.5 Kyprolis has been shown to block proteasomes, leading to an excessive build-up of proteins within cells.5 In some cells, Kyprolis can cause cell death, especially in myeloma cells because they are more likely to contain a higher amount of abnormal proteins.5,6

Kyprolis is approved in the U.S. for the following:

In combination with dexamethasone or with lenalidomide plus dexamethasone for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three lines of therapy.
As a single agent for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one or more lines of therapy.
Kyprolis is also approved in Argentina, Israel, Kuwait, Mexico, Thailand, Colombia, Korea, Canada, Switzerland, Russia and the European Union. Additional regulatory applications for Kyprolis are underway and have been submitted to health authorities worldwide.

Kyprolis is a product of Onyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Onyx Pharmaceuticals is a subsidiary of Amgen and holds development and commercialization rights to Kyprolis globally, excluding Japan.

For more information on Kyprolis in the U.S. please visit www.kyprolis.com.

Important EU Product Safety Information

This medicinal product is subject to additional monitoring. This will allow quick identification of new safety information. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions.

Kyprolis treatment should be supervised by a physician experienced in the use of anti-cancer therapy. The most serious side effects that may occur during Kyprolis treatment include: Cardiac toxicity, pulmonary toxicities, pulmonary hypertension, dyspnea, hypertension including hypertensive crises, acute renal failure, tumor lysis syndrome, infusion reactions, thrombocytopenia, hepatic toxicity, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS). The most common side effects are anemia, fatigue, diarrhea, thrombocytopenia, nausea, pyrexia, dyspnea, respiratory tract infection, cough and peripheral edema.

Please refer to the Summary of Product Characteristics for full European prescribing information.

Important Safety Information Regarding Kyprolis (carfilzomib) for Injection

INDICATION(S)

KYPROLIS (carfilzomib) is indicated in combination with dexamethasone or with lenalidomide plus dexamethasone for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three lines of therapy.
KYPROLIS (carfilzomib) is indicated as a single agent for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one or more lines of therapy.
IMPORTANT U.S. SAFETY INFORMATION

Cardiac Toxicities

New onset or worsening of pre-existing cardiac failure (e.g., congestive heart failure, pulmonary edema, decreased ejection fraction), restrictive cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia, and myocardial infarction including fatalities have occurred following administration of KYPROLIS. Some events occurred in patients with normal baseline ventricular function. Death due to cardiac arrest has occurred within one day of KYPROLIS administration.
Monitor patients for clinical signs or symptoms of cardiac failure or cardiac ischemia. Evaluate promptly if cardiac toxicity is suspected. Withhold KYPROLIS for Grade 3 or 4 cardiac adverse events until recovery, and consider whether to restart KYPROLIS at 1 dose level reduction based on a benefit/risk assessment.
While adequate hydration is required prior to each dose in Cycle 1, monitor all patients for evidence of volume overload, especially patients at risk for cardiac failure. Adjust total fluid intake as clinically appropriate in patients with baseline cardiac failure or who are at risk for cardiac failure.
Patients > 75 years, the risk of cardiac failure is increased. Patients with New York Heart Association Class III and IV heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, conduction abnormalities, angina, or arrhythmias may be at greater risk for cardiac complications and should have a comprehensive medical assessment (including blood pressure and fluid management) prior to starting treatment with KYPROLIS and remain under close follow-up.
Acute Renal Failure

Cases of acute renal failure and renal insufficiency adverse events (including renal failure) have occurred in patients receiving KYPROLIS. Acute renal failure was reported more frequently in patients with advanced relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma who received KYPROLIS monotherapy. Monitor renal function with regular measurement of the serum creatinine and/or estimated creatinine clearance. Reduce or withhold dose as appropriate.
Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Cases of Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS), including fatal outcomes, have occurred in patients receiving KYPROLIS. Patients with multiple myeloma and a high tumor burden should be considered at greater risk for TLS. Adequate hydration is required prior to each dose in Cycle 1, and in subsequent cycles as needed. Consider uric acid lowering drugs in patients at risk for TLS. Monitor for evidence of TLS during treatment and manage promptly. Withhold KYPROLIS until TLS is resolved.
Pulmonary Toxicity

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), acute respiratory failure, and acute diffuse infiltrative pulmonary disease such as pneumonitis and interstitial lung disease have occurred in patients receiving KYPROLIS. Some events have been fatal. In the event of drug-induced pulmonary toxicity, discontinue KYPROLIS.
Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was reported in patients treated with KYPROLIS. Evaluate with cardiac imaging and/or other tests as indicated. Withhold KYPROLIS for PAH until resolved or returned to baseline and consider whether to restart KYPROLIS based on a benefit/risk assessment.
Dyspnea

Dyspnea was reported in patients treated with KYPROLIS. Evaluate dyspnea to exclude cardiopulmonary conditions including cardiac failure and pulmonary syndromes. Stop KYPROLIS for Grade 3 or 4 dyspnea until resolved or returned to baseline. Consider whether to restart KYPROLIS based on a benefit/risk assessment.
Hypertension

Hypertension, including hypertensive crisis and hypertensive emergency, has been observed with KYPROLIS. Some of these events have been fatal. Monitor blood pressure regularly in all patients. If hypertension cannot be adequately controlled, withhold KYPROLIS and evaluate. Consider whether to restart KYPROLIS based on a benefit/risk assessment.
Venous Thrombosis

Venous thromboembolic events (including deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) have been observed with KYPROLIS. Thromboprophylaxis is recommended for patients being treated with the combination of KYPROLIS with dexamethasone or with lenalidomide plus dexamethasone. The thromboprophylaxis regimen should be based on an assessment of the patient’s underlying risks.
Patients using oral contraceptives or a hormonal method of contraception associated with a risk of thrombosis should consider an alternative method of effective contraception during treatment with KYPROLIS in combination with dexamethasone or lenalidomide plus dexamethasone.
Infusion Reactions

Infusion reactions, including life-threatening reactions, have occurred in patients receiving KYPROLIS. Symptoms include fever, chills, arthralgia, myalgia, facial flushing, facial edema, vomiting, weakness, shortness of breath, hypotension, syncope, chest tightness, or angina. These reactions can occur immediately following or up to 24 hours after administration of KYPROLIS. Premedicate with dexamethasone to reduce the incidence and severity of infusion reactions. Inform patients of the risk and of symptoms of an infusion reaction and to contact a physician immediately if they occur.
Thrombocytopenia

KYPROLIS causes thrombocytopenia with recovery to baseline platelet count usually by the start of the next cycle. Thrombocytopenia was reported in patients receiving KYPROLIS. Monitor platelet counts frequently during treatment with KYPROLIS. Reduce or withhold dose as appropriate.
Hepatic Toxicity and Hepatic Failure

Cases of hepatic failure, including fatal cases, have been reported during treatment with KYPROLIS. KYPROLIS can cause increased serum transaminases. Monitor liver enzymes regularly regardless of baseline values. Reduce or withhold dose as appropriate.
Thrombotic Microangiopathy

Cases of thrombotic microangiopathy, including thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS), including fatal outcome have occurred in patients receiving KYPROLIS. Monitor for signs and symptoms of TTP/HUS. Discontinue KYPROLIS if diagnosis is suspected. If the diagnosis of TTP/HUS is excluded, KYPROLIS may be restarted. The safety of reinitiating KYPROLIS therapy in patients previously experiencing TTP/HUS is not known.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES)

Cases of PRES have occurred in patients receiving KYPROLIS. PRES was formerly known as Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome. Consider a neuroradiological imaging (MRI) for onset of visual or neurological symptoms. Discontinue KYPROLIS if PRES is suspected and evaluate. The safety of reinitiating KYPROLIS therapy in patients previously experiencing PRES is not known.
Embryo-fetal Toxicity

KYPROLIS can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman based on its mechanism of action and findings in animals.
Females of reproductive potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant while being treated with KYPROLIS. Males of reproductive potential should be advised to avoid fathering a child while being treated with KYPROLIS. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if pregnancy occurs while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.
ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common adverse events occurring in at least 20% of patients treated with KYPROLIS in the combination therapy trials: anemia, neutropenia, diarrhea, dyspnea, fatigue, thrombocytopenia, pyrexia, insomnia, muscle spasm, cough, upper respiratory tract infection, hypokalemia.
The most common adverse events occurring in at least 20% of patients treated with KYPROLIS in monotherapy trials: anemia, fatigue, thrombocytopenia, nausea, pyrexia, dyspnea, diarrhea, headache, cough, edema peripheral.