Enhertu (trastuzumab deruxtecan) approved in the US for HER2-positive unresectable or metastatic breast cancer following two or more prior anti-HER2 based regimens

On December 20, 2019 AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited (Daiichi Sankyo) reported that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer who have received two or more prior anti-HER2 based regimens in the metastatic setting (Press release, AstraZeneca, DEC 20, 2019, View Source [SID1234552552]).

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

This indication is approved under Accelerated Approval based on tumour response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial.

Enhertu is a HER2-directed antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) and the FDA approval is based on the results of the registrational Phase II trial DESTINY-Breast01 of Enhertu (5.4mg/kg) monotherapy in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. All patients received prior trastuzumab, trastuzumab emtansine and 66% had prior pertuzumab.

The Phase II trial results showed a confirmed objective response rate of 60.3% (n=111, 95% CI 52.9-67.4) including a 4.3% complete response rate (n=8) and a 56.0% partial response rate (n=103). A median duration of response of 14.8 months (95% CI 13.8-16.9) was demonstrated as of 1 August 2019.1 In addition, a median progression-free survival of 16.4 months (95% CI 12.7-not estimable), based upon a median duration of follow up of 11.1 months, was recently presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium and published online in The New England Journal of Medicine.2

José Baselga, Executive Vice President, Oncology R&D, said: "Enhertu has shown impressive results in women with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, with the majority of women benefiting from treatment and the median duration of the response exceeding 14 months. With this first approval, we are proud to bring Enhertu to patients with high unmet need and we look forward to further exploring its potential in additional settings."

Antoine Yver, Executive Vice President and Global Head, Oncology R&D, Daiichi Sankyo said: "The approval of Enhertu underscores that this specifically engineered HER2-directed antibody-drug conjugate is delivering on its intent to establish an important new treatment for patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. Since the beginning of our clinical trial programme four years ago, we have focused on the opportunity to transform the treatment landscape for patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer, and we are extremely proud of how quickly we delivered Enhertu to patients in the US, as Enhertu represents one of the fastest-developed biologics in oncology."

The safety of Enhertu has been evaluated in a pooled analysis from both the Phase II trial DESTINY-Breast01 and the earlier Phase I trial among a total of 234 patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer who received at least one dose of Enhertu (5.4mg/kg).

The most common adverse reactions (greater than or equal to 20% of patients) were nausea, fatigue, vomiting, alopecia and constipation. Interstitial lung disease (ILD)/pneumonitis occurred in 9% of patients. Fatal outcomes due to ILD/pneumonitis occurred in six patients (2.6%) – two deaths previously reported in the Phase I trial and four deaths previously reported in the Phase II trial DESTINY-Breast01. Following an initial ILD management programme already in place, a further monitoring, management and educational campaign on ILD/pneumonitis was launched in 2019. Patients and physicians should be aware of ILD/pneumonitis and patients should be actively screened and monitored for potential signs and symptoms. If ILD/pneumonitis is identified, it should be managed with dose modification and steroid treatment according to management guidelines.2

A regulatory submission for the treatment of patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer has also been made to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare based on the DESTINY-Breast01 and Phase I trials.

AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo are exploring the further potential of Enhertu in HER2-breast cancer with three ongoing Phase III trials.

Financial considerations

Following US approval, an amount of $125m is due from AstraZeneca to Daiichi Sankyo as the first milestone payment in HER2-positive breast cancer. Upon approval, this will be capitalised together with the upfront payment already made earlier in the year 2019.

Future sales of Enhertu in the US will be recognised by Daiichi Sankyo. AstraZeneca will report its share of gross profit margin from the sales in the US as collaboration revenue in the Company’s financial statements. For further details on the financial arrangements, please consult the announcement of the collaboration agreement from March 2019.

About HER2-positive breast cancer

Approximately one in five breast cancers are HER2-positive.3,4 Despite recent improvements and approvals of new medicines, there remains significant unmet needs for patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer.5,6 This disease remains incurable with patients eventually progressing after available treatments.5,6

About HER2

HER2 is a tyrosine kinase receptor growth-promoting protein found on the surface of some cancer cells that is associated with aggressive disease and poor prognosis in patients with breast cancer.7 To be considered HER2-positive, tumour cancer cells are usually tested by one of two methods: immunohistochemistry (IHC) or fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH). IHC test results are reported as: 0, IHC 1+, IHC 2+, or IHC 3+.3 A finding of IHC 3+ and/or FISH amplification is considered positive.3

About DESTINY-Breast01

DESTINY-Breast01 is a registrational Phase II, single-arm, open-label, global, multicentre, two-part trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of Enhertu in patients with HER2-positive unresectable and/or metastatic breast cancer previously treated with trastuzumab emtansine. The primary endpoint of the trial is objective response rate, as determined by independent central review. Secondary objectives include duration of response, disease control rate, clinical benefit rate, progression-free survival and overall survival. Enrolment into DESTINY-Breast01 was completed in September 2018 with 184 patients at more than 100 sites globally.

About Enhertu

Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki in the US only; trastuzumab deruxtecan outside the US) is the lead product in the ADC Franchise of the Daiichi Sankyo Cancer Enterprise and the most advanced programme in AstraZeneca’s ADC scientific platform. ADCs are targeted cancer medicines that deliver cytotoxic chemotherapy ("payload") to cancer cells via a linker attached to a monoclonal antibody that binds to a specific target expressed on cancer cells.

About Enhertu clinical development

A comprehensive development programme is underway globally with five registrational trials in HER2-expressing metastatic breast and gastric cancers including a trial in patients with metastatic breast cancer and low levels of HER2 expression. Phase II trials are underway for HER2-expressing advanced colorectal cancer, as well as metastatic non-squamous HER2-overexpressing or HER2-mutated non-small cell lung cancer. Trials in combination with other anticancer treatments, such as immunotherapy, are also underway.

About the collaboration between AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo

In March 2019, AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo entered into a global collaboration to jointly develop and commercialise Enhertu worldwide, except in Japan where Daiichi Sankyo maintains exclusive rights. Daiichi Sankyo is solely responsible for manufacturing and supply.

About AstraZeneca in Oncology

AstraZeneca has a deep-rooted heritage in oncology and offers a quickly growing portfolio of new medicines that has the potential to transform patients’ lives and the Company’s future. With at least six new medicines to be launched between 2014 and 2020, and a broad pipeline of small molecules and biologic medicines in development, the Company is committed to advance oncology as a key growth driver for AstraZeneca focused on lung, ovarian, breast and blood cancers. In addition to AstraZeneca’s main capabilities, the Company is actively pursuing innovative partnerships and investments that accelerate the delivery of our strategy, as illustrated by the investment in Acerta Pharma in haematology.

By harnessing the power of four scientific platforms – Immuno-Oncology, Tumour Drivers and Resistance, DNA Damage Response and Antibody-Drug Conjugates – and by championing the development of personalised combinations, AstraZeneca has the vision to redefine cancer treatment and, one day, eliminate cancer as a cause of death.

Advaxis Reports Fiscal Year 2019 Financial Results and Provides a Business Update

On December 20, 2019 Advaxis, Inc. (Nasdaq: ADXS), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of immunotherapy products, reported its financial results for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2019 and provides a business update (Press release, Advaxis, DEC 20, 2019, View Source [SID1234552551]).

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

Fiscal Year 2019 and Recent Key Accomplishments

●Completed enrollment in the first and second dose levels in Part A of the ongoing Phase 1/2 trial evaluating ADXS-503, the Company’s ADXS-HOT drug candidate in non-small cell lung cancer, with immune response data anticipated in early 2020.
●Completed manufacturing of ADXS-506, the Company’s ADXS-HOT drug candidate for bladder cancer, enabling future potential clinical development.
●Reported early immune response data from the Phase 1 ADXS-NEO study demonstrating the generation of CD8+ T cells against hotspot neoantigen mutations. These results serve as an important proof-of-mechanism for the Company’s off-the-shelf ADXS-HOT program which targets common hotspot mutations found in tumors.
Announced updated overall survival from the KEYNOTE-046 Phase 1/2 trial evaluating ADXS-PSA in combination with KEYTRUDA in metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer. Median overall survival increased to 33.6 months from the previously reported 21.1 months.
● Entered collaborative research agreement with University of California, Los Angeles to investigate anti-tumor immunity and responses generated by Lm vaccines targeting glioblastoma neoantigens.
●Continued pipeline prioritization efforts enabling the reduction of operating expenses and extension of cash runway into early 2021.

Management Commentary

"Fiscal year 2019 has been marked with continued progress in the strategic advancement of our most promising clinical programs," said Kenneth A. Berlin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Advaxis. "With encouraging clinical proof-of-concept data, we are focused on developing and expanding our off-the-shelf neoantigen program, ADXS-HOT, and look forward to sharing immunogenicity data in early 2020. In addition, the announcement of significant improvements in overall survival from our KEYNOTE-046 study in prostate cancer further bolsters our confidence in the power of our Lm technology to improve patient outcomes and potentially shift the immunotherapy treatment paradigm. These promising data, in combination with our successful efforts to reduce cash burn and increase efficiencies, leave us positioned to execute on our innovative immunotherapy clinical pipeline."

Balance Sheet Highlights

As of October 31, 2019, Advaxis had cash and cash equivalents of $32.4 million. The Company used $36.1 million in cash to fund operations during fiscal year 2019, mainly attributed to funding research and development and general and administrative activities. Throughout fiscal year 2019, the Company continued a strategic pipeline prioritization across all programs and reduced its annual expenses by approximately $37.6 million, or nearly 50%.

Fiscal Year 2019 Financial Information

Research and development expenses for fiscal year 2019 were $26.7 million, compared with $57.0 million for fiscal year 2018. The $30.3 million decrease was primarily attributable to decreases in clinical trial costs, laboratory costs, drug manufacturing process validation and drug stability studies.

General and administrative expenses for fiscal year 2019 were $12.2 million, compared to $19.5 million for fiscal year 2018. The $7.3 million decrease was primarily attributable to the institution of control cost measures for non-essential items in areas that did not support the strategic direction of the Company, as well as a reduction in external costs associated with strategy, business consulting and regulatory in fiscal year 2018 that did not recur in fiscal year 2019.

The net loss for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2019 was $16.6 million or $1.09 per share based on 15.2 million weighted average shares outstanding. This compares with a net loss for fiscal year 2018 of $66.5 million or $19.36 per share based on 3.4 million weighted average shares outstanding.

AbbVie Announces Extension of Expiration Date for Exchange Offers for Allergan Notes

On December 20, 2019 AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV) ("AbbVie") reported the extension of the expiration date of the offers to exchange (each, an "Exchange Offer" and, collectively, the "Exchange Offers") any and all outstanding notes of certain series issued by Allergan Finance, LLC ("Allergan Finance"), Allergan, Inc. ("Allergan Inc"), Allergan Sales, LLC ("Allergan Sales") and Allergan Funding SCS ("Allergan Funding" and, together with Allergan Finance, Allergan Inc and Allergan Sales, "Allergan") (the "Allergan Notes") for new notes to be issued by AbbVie (the "AbbVie Notes") and the related consent solicitations (each, a "Consent Solicitation" and, collectively, the "Consent Solicitations") being made by AbbVie on behalf of Allergan to adopt certain amendments to each of the indentures (each, an "Allergan Indenture") governing the Allergan Notes (Press release, AbbVie, DEC 20, 2019, View Source [SID1234552550]). AbbVie hereby extends such expiration date from 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on December 31, 2019 to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on January 31, 2020 (as the same may be further extended, the "Expiration Date").

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

On the early participation date of November 7, 2019, requisite consents were received and supplemental indentures were executed eliminating substantially all of the covenants, restrictive provisions, events of default and any guarantees of the related Allergan Notes in each Allergan Indenture. Such supplemental indentures will become operative only upon settlement of the Exchange Offers.

The Exchange Offers and Consent Solicitations were commenced in connection with AbbVie’s previously announced proposed acquisition of Allergan plc (the "Acquisition") and are being made pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the confidential offering memorandum and consent solicitation statement, dated October 25, 2019, and the related letter of transmittal, each as amended by the press release dated November 18, 2019 and as amended hereby (collectively, the "Offering Documents"), and are conditioned upon the closing of the Acquisition, which condition may not be waived by AbbVie, and certain other conditions that may be waived by AbbVie.

The settlement date for the Exchange Offers is expected to occur promptly after the Expiration Date and the Expiration Date of each of the Exchange Offers is expected to be extended to occur on or about the closing date of the Acquisition, which is expected to occur in early 2020. As a result, the Expiration Date may be further extended one or more times. AbbVie currently anticipates providing notice of any such extension in advance of the Expiration Date.

Except as described in this press release, all other terms of the Exchange Offers and Consent Solicitations remain unchanged.

As of 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on December 19, 2019, the principal amounts of Allergan Notes set forth in the table below were validly tendered and not validly withdrawn:

Documents relating to the Exchange Offers and Consent Solicitations will only be distributed to eligible holders of Allergan Notes who complete and return an eligibility form confirming that they are either a "qualified institutional buyer" as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), or not a "U.S. person" and outside the United States within the meaning of Regulation S under the Securities Act. Except as amended by the press release dated November 18, 2019 and as amended hereby, the complete terms and conditions of the Exchange Offers and Consent Solicitations are described in the Offering Documents, copies of which may be obtained by contacting Global Bondholder Services Corporation, the exchange agent and information agent in connection with the Exchange Offers and Consent Solicitations, at (866) 470-3900 (U.S. toll-free) or (212) 430-3774 (banks and brokers). The eligibility form is available electronically at: View Source

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or purchase, or a solicitation of an offer to sell or purchase, or the solicitation of tenders or consents with respect to, any security. No offer, solicitation, purchase or sale will be made in any jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The Exchange Offers and Consent Solicitations are being made solely pursuant to the Offering Documents and only to such persons and in such jurisdictions as are permitted under applicable law.

The AbbVie Notes offered in the Exchange Offers have not been registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws. Therefore, the AbbVie Notes may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws.

TRACON Pharmaceuticals, 3D Medicines and Jiangsu Alphamab Announce Partnership for Development of Subcutaneous PD-L1 Single-Domain Antibody in Soft Tissue Sarcoma

On December 20, 2019 TRACON Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:TCON), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of novel targeted therapeutics for cancer, reported that it has signed a collaborative partnership agreement with 3D Medicines (Beijing) Co., Ltd., a China-based biopharmaceutical company focused on cancer precision medical treatment, and Jiangsu Alphamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alphamab Oncology (HKEX: 9966) and a China-based clinical stage biopharmaceutical company primarily engaging in research and development, manufacturing and commercialization of biologics of oncology, for the development of envafolimab, also known as KN035, a PD-L1 single-domain antibody administered by subcutaneous injection, for development in soft tissue sarcoma in North America (Press release, Tracon Pharmaceuticals, DEC 20, 2019, View Source [SID1234552548]).

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

TRACON and 3D Medicines and Jiangsu Alphamab entered into a product development collaboration whereby TRACON will be responsible for the clinical development and commercialization of envafolimab in soft tissue sarcoma in North America, with the majority of the development activities expected to occur in the U.S. TRACON will bear the costs of clinical trials and 3D Medicines and Jiangsu Alphamab will supply envafolimab at pre-negotiated prices.

TRACON will be responsible for commercializing envafolimab for sarcoma in North America, except in certain circumstances involving the approval of envafolimab for other indications in North America, in which case TRACON has the option to co-market envafolimab for sarcoma in North America.

If TRACON has responsibility for commercialization under the Collaboration Agreement, it will owe 3D Medicines and Jiangsu Alphamab escalating double digit royalties on net sales of envafolimab for sarcoma in North America ranging from the teens to mid-double digits, which amounts shall be split between 3D Medicines and Jiangsu Alphamab as negotiated. If 3D Medicines and Jiangsu Alphamab have responsibility for commercialization under

4350 La Jolla Village Drive ● Suite 800 ● San Diego, California 92122 ● P: 858.550.0780 ● F: 858.550.0786

URL: www.traconpharma.com

the Collaboration Agreement, TRACON will be entitled to (a) escalating double digit royalties on net sales of envafolimab for sarcoma in North America ranging from the teens to mid-double digits if TRACON has chosen to not co-market envafolimab in sarcoma or (b) a 50% royalty on net sales of envafolimab for sarcoma in North America if TRACON has chosen to co-market envafolimab in sarcoma.

At the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) 2019 meeting, data were presented from the SARC 028 clinical study demonstrating that the PD-1 inhibitor Keytruda (pembrolizumab) achieved a 23% response rate in 40 patients with UPS, irrespective of PD-L1 expression in the tumor specimen. Additional data published subsequently indicate that Keytruda achieved more than a 50% objective response rate in cutaneous angiosarcoma. In a separate study, the PD-L1 inhibitor Tecentriq (atezolizumab) achieved a more than 40% objective response rate in alveolar soft part sarcoma.

"Given the activity of other PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors in sarcoma, we believe a registration enabling study of envafolimab in the sarcoma subtype of UPS will be meaningful to patients and providers, and is strategically aligned with TRACON’s mission to rapidly develop and commercialize drugs targeting unmet need indications in the U.S.," said Charles Theuer, M.D., Ph.D., President and CEO of TRACON. "We expect to discuss our plan of initiating a pivotal trial of envafolimab in UPS with the U.S. FDA in early 2020. Our ultimate goal is to enable a biomarker directed approach for treatment with envafolimab in patients with multiple types of soft tissue sarcoma."

UPS accounts for 10% of new cases of soft tissue sarcoma in the United States and TRACON estimates that it represents a potential market of $200M without considering a price premium to the reference PD-1 inhibitors Opdivo (nivolumb) and Keytruda (pembrolizumab). Approval in soft tissue sarcoma subtypes other than UPS could increase the market opportunity significantly.

"We believe that collaboration with TRACON will give cancer patients an option for a subcutaneous injection in the United States. In earlier clinical trials, the safety and efficacy profiles of envafolimab are comparable to other PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies in the market." said John Gong, CEO of 3D Medicines.

Dr. Ting Xu, Chairman and CEO of Alphamab Oncology, added "The collaboration is an important part of envafolimab’s global development strategy. As the most advanced single domain antibody in IO with the advantage of a subcutaneous dosage, we are confident it will bring a valuable option for cancer patients."

Investor Conference Call

The Company will hold a conference call today at 8:30 a.m. ET / 5:30 a.m. PT to provide further details on the agreement and envafolimab. The dial-in numbers are (877) 407-0784 for domestic callers and (201) 689-8560 for international callers. Please use passcode 13697590. A live webcast of the conference call will be available at View Source

After the live webcast, a replay will remain available on TRACON’s website for 60 days.

About Envafolimab

Envafolimab is a novel, single-domain antibody against PD-L1 that is administered by subcutaneous injection without the need for an adjuvant at a dose of 300 mg on a every 2 week schedule, and PK suggest a prolonged half-life that would support a less frequent dosing schedule. Envafolimab is currently dosing in Phase 1 trials in the US and Japan and is being studied in China in a Phase 2 registration trial as a single agent in MSI-H tumor patients, and in combination with gemcitabine and oxaliplatin in a Phase 3 registration trial in biliary tract cancer. Subject to positive data from the MSI-H registrational trial, 3D Medicines plans to file a BLA in China for envafolimab in 2020 based on overall response rate in MSI-H patients. The filing would be based on the principle in China that the response rate is required to be similar to the response rate for Keytruda and Opdivo in MSI-H patients from separate clinical trials per the product package inserts.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Receives European Commission Approval for Revlimid® (lenalidomide) in Combination with Rituximab for the Treatment of Adult Patients with Previously Treated Follicular Lymphoma

On December 20, 2019 Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE: BMY) reported that the European Commission (EC) has approved a new indication for Revlimid (lenalidomide), in combination with rituximab (anti-CD20 antibody), for the treatment of adult patients with previously treated follicular lymphoma (FL) (Grade 1-3a) (Press release, Bristol-Myers Squibb, DEC 20, 2019, View Source [SID1234552547]). This combination of Revlimid and rituximab (R2) is the first chemotherapy-free combination regimen approved for patients with FL by the EC.

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

"This approval is a significant milestone for patients with follicular lymphoma whose disease is not responding to current therapy or has returned following prior treatment. In the phase 3 AUGMENT sudy, patients receiving R2 experienced extended periods of disease remission versus patients receiving rituximab plus placebo," said Nadim Ahmed, President of Hematology at Bristol-Myers Squibb.

FL is a subtype of indolent, but incurable, non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) which is associated with immune system dysfunction.1,2 There remains an unmet medical need for novel treatments for patients who have relapsed or become refractory to their previous treatment. It has been hypothesized that the combination therapy, R2, works with the patient’s immune system using the immunomodulatory properties of Revlimid along with the CD20 antibody-targeted mechanism of action of rituximab in order to help the patient’s own immune system fight the cancer.3

"Immune dysfunction is a defining aspect of indolent NHL, including follicular lymphoma," said Prof. John Gribben, President of the European Hematology Association (EHA) (Free EHA Whitepaper) and Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, in England. "By utilizing the patient’s own immune system, R2 represents a new approach to treatment in follicular lymphoma, giving patients a chemotherapy-free option with demonstrated efficacy."

The approval of R2 is based primarily on results from the randomized, multi-center, double-blind, phase 3 AUGMENT study, which evaluated the efficacy and safety of the R² combination versus rituximab plus placebo in patients with previously treated FL (n=295) or marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) (n=63).4

In AUGMENT, treatment with R2 demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the primary endpoint of median progression-free survival (PFS) (EMA Censoring Rules), evaluated by an independent review committee, versus rituximab plus placebo. The median PFS was 39.4 months for FL patients treated with R2 and 13.8 months for those treated with rituximab-placebo (HR: 0.40; 95% CI, 0.29-0.55; P<0.0001). Median follow-up time was 29.2 months (range, 0.5-50.9) in the intent to treat population (n=295).4

In AUGMENT the adverse reactions of any grade observed more frequently in the FL R2 arm compared with the placebo/rituximab arm (with at least 2% higher frequency between arms) were neutropenia (58.2%), diarrhea (30.8%), leukopenia (28.8%), constipation (21.9%), cough (21.9%) and fatigue (21.9%).4

In addition to AUGMENT, findings from the MAGNIFY study were included as support for the safety and the efficacy of Revlimid plus rituximab in patients with relapsed or refractory FL, including rituximab refractory FL patients.5

About Follicular Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a blood cancer that develops in lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell in the immune system that helps protect the body from infection.6 There are two classes of lymphoma – Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) – each with specific subtypes that determine how the cancer behaves, spreads and should be treated.3,7,8 Other differentiating factors of lymphomas are what type of lymphocyte is affected (T cell or B cell) and how mature the cells are when they become cancerous.8

FL is the most common indolent (slow-growing) form of NHL, accounting for approximately 25% of all NHL patients.9,10 Most patients present with advanced disease when lymphoma-related symptoms appear (e.g., nodal disease, B symptoms, cytopenia) and receive systemic chemoimmunotherapy.9 While FL patients are generally responsive to initial treatment, the disease course is characterized by recurrent relapses over time with shorter remission periods.11

About AUGMENT

AUGMENT is a phase 3, randomized, double-blind clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of Revlimid (lenalidomide) in combination with rituximab (R²) versus rituximab plus placebo in patients with previously treated follicular lymphoma (FL) or marginal zone lymphoma (MZL). AUGMENT included patients diagnosed with MZL or Grade 1, 2 or 3a FL, who were previously treated with at least 1 prior systemic therapy and two previous doses of rituximab.4 Patients were documented relapsed, refractory or progressive disease following systemic therapy, but were not rituximab-refractory.12

The primary endpoint was progression-free survival, defined as the time from date of randomization to the first observation of disease progression or death due to any cause.12 Secondary and exploratory endpoints included overall response rate, durable complete response rate, complete response rate, duration of response, duration of complete response, overall survival, event-free survival and time to next anti-lymphoma therapy.4,12

Bristol-Myers Squibb: Advancing Cancer Research

At Bristol-Myers Squibb, patients are at the center of everything we do. The goal of our cancer research is to increase quality, long-term survival and make cure a possibility. We harness our deep scientific experience, cutting-edge technologies and discovery platforms to discover, develop and deliver novel treatments for patients.

Building upon our transformative work and legacy in hematology and Immuno-Oncology that has changed survival expectations for many cancers, our researchers are advancing a deep and diverse pipeline across multiple modalities. In the field of immune cell therapy, this includes registrational chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell agents for numerous diseases, and a growing early-stage pipeline that expands cell and gene therapy targets, and technologies. We are developing cancer treatments directed at key biological pathways using our protein homeostasis platform, a research capability that has been the basis of our approved therapies for multiple myeloma and several promising compounds in early to mid-stage development. Our scientists are targeting different immune system pathways to address interactions between tumors, the microenvironment and the immune system to further expand upon the progress we have made and help more patients respond to treatment. Combining these approaches is key to delivering new options for the treatment of cancer and addressing the growing issue of resistance to immunotherapy. We source innovation internally, and in collaboration with academia, government, advocacy groups and biotechnology companies, to help make the promise of transformational medicines a reality for patients.

About Revlimid

Revlimid is approved in Europe and the United States as monotherapy, indicated for the maintenance treatment of adult patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) who have undergone autologous stem cell transplantation. Revlimid as combination therapy is approved in Europe, in the United States, in Japan and in around 25 other countries for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated MM who are not eligible for transplant. Revlimid is also approved in combination with dexamethasone for the treatment of patients with MM who have received at least one prior therapy in nearly 70 countries, encompassing Europe, the Americas, the Middle-East and Asia, and in combination with dexamethasone for the treatment of patients whose disease has progressed after one therapy in Australia and New Zealand.

Revlimid is also approved in the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand and several Latin American countries, as well as Malaysia and Israel, for transfusion-dependent anemia due to low- or intermediate-1-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) associated with a deletion 5q cytogenetic abnormality with or without additional cytogenetic abnormalities and in Europe for the treatment of patients with transfusion-dependent anemia due to low- or intermediate-1-risk MDS associated with an isolated deletion 5q cytogenetic abnormality when other therapeutic options are insufficient or inadequate.

In addition, Revlimid is approved in Europe for the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and in the United States for the treatment of patients with MCL whose disease has relapsed or progressed after two prior therapies, one of which included bortezomib. In Switzerland, Revlimid is indicated for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory MCL after prior therapy that included bortezomib and chemotherapy/rituximab.

Revlimid is also approved in the United States in combination with a rituximab product. It is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with previously treated FL and adult patients with previously treated marginal zone lymphoma.

Revlimid is not indicated and is not recommended for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) outside of controlled clinical trials.

U.S. FDA-APPROVED INDICATIONS FOR REVLIMID

REVLIMID (lenalidomide) in combination with dexamethasone (dex) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma (MM).

REVLIMID is indicated as maintenance therapy in adult patients with MM following autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT).

REVLIMID is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with transfusion-dependent anemia due to low-or intermediate-1–risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) associated with a deletion 5q cytogenetic abnormality with or without additional cytogenetic abnormalities.

REVLIMID is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) whose disease has relapsed or progressed after two prior therapies, one of which included bortezomib.

REVLIMID in combination with a rituximab product is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with previously treated follicular lymphoma (FL).

REVLIMID in combination with a rituximab product is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with previously treated marginal zone lymphoma (MZL).

REVLIMID is not indicated and is not recommended for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) outside of controlled clinical trials.

REVLIMID is only available through a restricted distribution program, REVLIMID REMS.

Important Safety Information

WARNING: EMBRYO-FETAL TOXICITY, HEMATOLOGIC TOXICITY, and VENOUS and ARTERIAL THROMBOEMBOLISM

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Do not use REVLIMID during pregnancy. Lenalidomide, a thalidomide analogue, caused limb abnormalities in a developmental monkey study. Thalidomide is a known human teratogen that causes severe life-threatening human birth defects. If lenalidomide is used during pregnancy, it may cause birth defects or embryo-fetal death. In females of reproductive potential, obtain 2 negative pregnancy tests before starting REVLIMID treatment. Females of reproductive potential must use 2 forms of contraception or continuously abstain from heterosexual sex during and for 4 weeks after REVLIMID treatment. To avoid embryo-fetal exposure to lenalidomide, REVLIMID is only available through a restricted distribution program, the REVLIMID REMS program.

Information about the REVLIMID REMS program is available at www.celgeneriskmanagement.com or by calling the manufacturer’s toll-free number 1-888-423-5436.

Hematologic Toxicity (Neutropenia and Thrombocytopenia)

REVLIMID can cause significant neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Eighty percent of patients with del 5q MDS had to have a dose delay/reduction during the major study. Thirty-four percent of patients had to have a second dose delay/reduction. Grade 3 or 4 hematologic toxicity was seen in 80% of patients enrolled in the study. Patients on therapy for del 5q MDS should have their complete blood counts monitored weekly for the first 8 weeks of therapy and at least monthly thereafter. Patients may require dose interruption and/or reduction. Patients may require use of blood product support and/or growth factors.

Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism

REVLIMID has demonstrated a significantly increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), as well as risk of myocardial infarction and stroke in patients with MM who were treated with REVLIMID and dexamethasone therapy. Monitor for and advise patients about signs and symptoms of thromboembolism. Advise patients to seek immediate medical care if they develop symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or arm or leg swelling. Thromboprophylaxis is recommended and the choice of regimen should be based on an assessment of the patient’s underlying risks.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Pregnancy: REVLIMID can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female and is contraindicated in females who are pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential risk to the fetus.

Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions: REVLIMID is contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated severe hypersensitivity (e.g., angioedema, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) to lenalidomide.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: See Boxed WARNINGS.

Females of Reproductive Potential: See Boxed WARNINGS.
Males: Lenalidomide is present in the semen of patients receiving the drug. Males must always use a latex or synthetic condom during any sexual contact with females of reproductive potential while taking REVLIMID and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuing REVLIMID, even if they have undergone a successful vasectomy. Male patients taking REVLIMID must not donate sperm.
Blood Donation: Patients must not donate blood during treatment with REVLIMID and for 4 weeks following discontinuation of the drug because the blood might be given to a pregnant female patient whose fetus must not be exposed to REVLIMID.
REVLIMID REMS Program: See Boxed WARNINGS. Prescribers and pharmacies must be certified with the REVLIMID REMS program by enrolling and complying with the REMS requirements; pharmacies must only dispense to patients who are authorized to receive REVLIMID. Patients must sign a Patient-Physician Agreement Form and comply with REMS requirements; female patients of reproductive potential who are not pregnant must comply with the pregnancy testing and contraception requirements and males must comply with contraception requirements.

Hematologic Toxicity: REVLIMID can cause significant neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Monitor patients with neutropenia for signs of infection. Advise patients to observe for bleeding or bruising, especially with use of concomitant medications that may increase risk of bleeding. Patients may require a dose interruption and/or dose reduction. MM: Monitor complete blood counts (CBC) in patients taking REVLIMID + dexamethasone or REVLIMID as maintenance therapy, every 7 days for the first 2 cycles, on days 1 and 15 of cycle 3, and every 28 days thereafter. MDS: Monitor CBC in patients on therapy for del 5q MDS, weekly for the first 8 weeks of therapy and at least monthly thereafter. See Boxed WARNINGS for further information. MCL: Monitor CBC in patients taking REVLIMID for MCL weekly for the first cycle (28 days), every 2 weeks during cycles 2-4, and then monthly thereafter. FL/MZL: Monitor CBC in patients taking REVLIMID for FL or MZL weekly for the first 3 weeks of Cycle 1 (28 days), every 2 weeks during Cycles 2-4, and then monthly thereafter.

Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism: See Boxed WARNINGS. Venous thromboembolic events (DVT and PE) and arterial thromboses (MI and CVA) are increased in patients treated with REVLIMID. Patients with known risk factors, including prior thrombosis, may be at greater risk and actions should be taken to try to minimize all modifiable factors (e.g., hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking). Thromboprophylaxis is recommended and the regimen should be based on the patient’s underlying risks. ESAs and estrogens may further increase the risk of thrombosis and their use should be based on a benefit-risk decision.

Increased Mortality in Patients With CLL: In a clinical trial in the first-line treatment of patients with CLL, single-agent REVLIMID therapy increased the risk of death as compared to single-agent chlorambucil. Serious adverse cardiovascular reactions, including atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and cardiac failure, occurred more frequently in the REVLIMID arm. REVLIMID is not indicated and not recommended for use in CLL outside of controlled clinical trials.

Second Primary Malignancies (SPM): In clinical trials in patients with MM receiving REVLIMID and in patients with FL or MZL receiving REVLIMID + rituximab therapy, an increase of hematologic plus solid tumor SPM, notably AML, have been observed. In patients with MM, MDS was also observed. Monitor patients for the development of SPM. Take into account both the potential benefit of REVLIMID and risk of SPM when considering treatment.

Increased Mortality With Pembrolizumab: In clinical trials in patients with MM, the addition of pembrolizumab to a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone resulted in increased mortality. Treatment of patients with MM with a PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody in combination with a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone is not recommended outside of controlled clinical trials.

Hepatotoxicity: Hepatic failure, including fatal cases, has occurred in patients treated with REVLIMID + dexamethasone. Pre-existing viral liver disease, elevated baseline liver enzymes, and concomitant medications may be risk factors. Monitor liver enzymes periodically. Stop REVLIMID upon elevation of liver enzymes. After return to baseline values, treatment at a lower dose may be considered.

Severe Cutaneous Reactions: Severe cutaneous reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) have been reported. These events can be fatal. Patients with a prior history of Grade 4 rash associated with thalidomide treatment should not receive REVLIMID. Consider REVLIMID interruption or discontinuation for Grade 2-3 skin rash. Permanently discontinue REVLIMID for Grade 4 rash, exfoliative or bullous rash, or for other severe cutaneous reactions such as SJS, TEN, or DRESS.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS): Fatal instances of TLS have been reported during treatment with REVLIMID. The patients at risk of TLS are those with high tumor burden prior to treatment. Closely monitor patients at risk and take appropriate preventive approaches.

Tumor Flare Reaction (TFR): TFR has occurred during investigational use of REVLIMID for CLL and lymphoma. Monitoring and evaluation for TFR is recommended in patients with MCL, FL, or MZL. Tumor flare may mimic the progression of disease (PD). In patients with Grade 3 or 4 TFR, it is recommended to withhold treatment with REVLIMID until TFR resolves to ≤Grade 1. REVLIMID may be continued in patients with Grade 1 and 2 TFR without interruption or modification, at the physician’s discretion.

Impaired Stem Cell Mobilization: A decrease in the number of CD34+ cells collected after treatment (>4 cycles) with REVLIMID has been reported. Consider early referral to transplant center to optimize timing of the stem cell collection.

Thyroid Disorders: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism have been reported. Measure thyroid function before starting REVLIMID treatment and during therapy.

Early Mortality in Patients With MCL: In another MCL study, there was an increase in early deaths (within 20 weeks); 12.9% in the REVLIMID arm versus 7.1% in the control arm. Risk factors for early deaths include high tumor burden, MIPI score at diagnosis, and high WBC at baseline (≥10 x 109/L).

Hypersensitivity: Hypersensitivity, including angioedema, anaphylaxis, and anaphylactic reactions to REVLIMID has been reported. Permanently discontinue REVLIMID for angioedema and anaphylaxis.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Multiple Myeloma

In newly diagnosed: The most frequently reported Grade 3 or 4 reactions included neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, pneumonia, asthenia, fatigue, back pain, hypokalemia, rash, cataract, lymphopenia, dyspnea, DVT, hyperglycemia, and leukopenia. The highest frequency of infections occurred in Arm Rd Continuous (75%) compared to Arm MPT (56%). There were more Grade 3 and 4 and serious adverse reactions of infection in Arm Rd Continuous than either Arm MPT or Rd18.
The most common adverse reactions reported in ≥20% (Arm Rd Continuous): diarrhea (45%), anemia (44%), neutropenia (35%), fatigue (33%), back pain (32%), asthenia (28%), insomnia (28%), rash (26%), decreased appetite (23%), cough (23%), dyspnea (22%), pyrexia (21%), abdominal pain (20%), muscle spasms (20%), and thrombocytopenia (20%).
Maintenance Therapy Post Auto-HSCT: The most frequently reported Grade 3 or 4 reactions in ≥20% (REVLIMID arm) included neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia. The serious adverse reactions of lung infection and neutropenia (more than 4.5%) occurred in the REVLIMID arm.
The most frequently reported adverse reactions in ≥20% (REVLIMID arm) across both maintenance studies (Study 1, Study 2) were neutropenia (79%, 61%), thrombocytopenia (72%, 24%), leukopenia (23%, 32%), anemia (21%, 9%), upper respiratory tract infection (27%, 11%), bronchitis (4%, 47%), nasopharyngitis (2%, 35%), cough (10%, 27%), gastroenteritis (0%, 23%), diarrhea (54%, 39%), rash (32%, 8%), fatigue (23%, 11%), asthenia (0%, 30%), muscle spasm (0%, 33%), and pyrexia (8%, 20%).
After at least one prior therapy: The most common adverse reactions reported in ≥20% (REVLIMID/dex vs dex/placebo): fatigue (44% vs 42%), neutropenia (42% vs 6%), constipation (41% vs 21%), diarrhea (39% vs 27%), muscle cramp (33% vs 21%), anemia (31% vs 24%), pyrexia (27% vs 23%), peripheral edema (26% vs 21%), nausea (26% vs 21%), back pain (26% vs 19%), upper respiratory tract infection (25% vs 16%), dyspnea (24% vs 17%), dizziness (23% vs 17%), thrombocytopenia (22% vs 11%), rash (21% vs 9%), tremor (21% vs 7%), and weight decreased (20% vs 15%).
Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Grade 3 and 4 adverse events reported in ≥ 5% of patients with del 5q MDS were neutropenia (53%), thrombocytopenia (50%), pneumonia (7%), rash (7%), anemia (6%), leukopenia (5%), fatigue (5%), dyspnea (5%), and back pain (5%).
Adverse events reported in ≥15% of del 5q MDS patients (REVLIMID): thrombocytopenia (61.5%), neutropenia (58.8%), diarrhea (49%), pruritus (42%), rash (36%), fatigue (31%), constipation (24%), nausea (24%), nasopharyngitis (23%), arthralgia (22%), pyrexia (21%), back pain (21%), peripheral edema (20%), cough (20%), dizziness (20%), headache (20%), muscle cramp (18%), dyspnea (17%), pharyngitis (16%), epistaxis (15%), asthenia (15%), upper respiratory tract infection (15%).
Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Grade 3 and 4 adverse events reported in ≥5% of patients treated with REVLIMID in the MCL trial (N=134) included neutropenia (43%), thrombocytopenia (28%), anemia (11%), pneumonia (9%), leukopenia (7%), fatigue (7%), diarrhea (6%), dyspnea (6%), and febrile neutropenia (6%).
Adverse events reported in ≥15% of patients treated with REVLIMID in the MCL trial included neutropenia (49%), thrombocytopenia (36%), fatigue (34%), anemia (31%), diarrhea (31%), nausea (30%), cough (28%), pyrexia (23%), rash (22%), dyspnea (18%), pruritus (17%), peripheral edema (16%), constipation (16%), and leukopenia (15%).
Follicular Lymphoma/Marginal Zone Lymphoma

Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 6 patients (1.5%) receiving REVLIMID + rituximab across both trials. Fatal adverse reactions (1 each) included: cardio-respiratory arrest, arrhythmia, cardiopulmonary failure, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, sepsis, and acute kidney injury. The most frequent serious adverse reaction that occurred in the REVLIMID + rituximab arm was febrile neutropenia (3.0%).
Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions reported in ≥5% of patients treated in the FL/MZL trial with REVLIMID + rituximab were: neutropenia (50%) and leukopenia (7%).
Adverse reactions reported in ≥15% of patients with FL/MZL treated with REVLIMID + rituximab were: neutropenia (58%), diarrhea (31%), constipation (26%), cough (24%), fatigue (22%), rash (22%), pyrexia (21%), leukopenia (20%), pruritus (20%), upper respiratory tract infections (18%), abdominal pain (18%), anemia (16%), headache (15%), thrombocytopenia (15%).
DRUG INTERACTIONS

Periodically monitor digoxin plasma levels due to increased Cmax and AUC with concomitant REVLIMID therapy. Patients taking concomitant therapies such as erythropoietin-stimulating agents or estrogen-containing therapies may have an increased risk of thrombosis. It is not known whether there is an interaction between dexamethasone and warfarin. Close monitoring of PT and INR is recommended in patients with MM taking concomitant warfarin.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

Pregnancy: See Boxed WARNINGS: If pregnancy does occur during treatment, immediately discontinue the drug and refer patient to an obstetrician/gynecologist experienced in reproductive toxicity for further evaluation and counseling. There is a REVLIMID pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in females exposed to REVLIMID during pregnancy as well as female partners of male patients who are exposed to REVLIMID. This registry is also used to understand the root cause for the pregnancy. Report any suspected fetal exposure to REVLIMID to the FDA via the MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088 and also to Celgene Corporation at 1-888-423-5436.
Lactation: There is no information regarding the presence of lenalidomide in human milk, the effects of REVLIMID on the breastfed infant, or the effects of REVLIMID on milk production. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for adverse reactions in breastfed infants from REVLIMID, advise female patients not to breastfeed during treatment with REVLIMID.
Renal Impairment: Adjust the starting dose of REVLIMID based on the creatinine clearance value and for patients on dialysis.