Xylyx Bio and Cell&Soft Announce positive initial results following Strategic Partnership to Develop Next-Generation in vitro Platforms to Accelerate Cancer Drug Discovery

On February 2, 2021 Xylyx Bio, a leader in predictive disease models and tissue-specific extracellular matrix (ECM) products, and Cell&Soft SAS, a French biotech company specializing in innovative soft cell culture plates, reported positive preliminary results, reaching a key milestone in their partnership to develop more physiologically relevant in vitro cellular models for cell-based assays in oncology (Press release, Xylyx Bio, FEB 2, 2021, View Source [SID1234574517]).

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Existing in vitro models lack physiological relevance, yielding misleading and non-translatable results that slow essential progress needed to develop effective drugs capable of preventing thousands of cancer deaths each year.

The collaboration initially focuses on the development of products for lung adenocarcinoma. The promising early results indicated that the combination of Xylyx Bio lung-specific ECM surface coatings and Cell&Soft soft cell culture plates are compatible technologies and that lung tumor cells are highly functional in this environment. The resulting lung-specific soft cell culture products will enable scientists to develop more physiologically relevant pre-clinical tumor models to substantially improve the identification and selection of effective lung cancer therapies.

Camille Migdal, Ph.D., President and Co-Founder of Cell&Soft, said, "We are excited about combining our soft cell culture plates mimicking lung rigidity with Xylyx Bio lung-specific extracellular matrix. It opens a way towards innovative and relevant products for pulmonary in vitro cell culture."

Andrea Nye, President & CEO of Xylyx Bio, explained, "Collaborative relationships with innovative companies like Cell&Soft support the creation of improved tools that enable researchers to better model disease biology and increase predictability of drug efficacy, helping shift the overall paradigm from entrenched, non-predictive in vitro models to more accurate and actionable drug discovery."

Ascentage Pharma Released Preclinical Results of MDM2-p53 Inhibitor APG-115 in an Oral Presentation at WCLC 2020, Demonstrating Therapeutic Potential in STK11-Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

On February 2, 2021 Ascentage Pharma (6855.HK), a globally focused, clinical-stage biotechnology company engaged in developing novel therapies for cancers, chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and age-related diseases, reported that the company recently released the results from a preclinical study of APG-115, a novel MDM2-p53 inhibitor being developed by Ascentage Pharma, in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring STK11 mutations through an oral presentation on January 29, 2021, at the 2020 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC 2020) (Press release, Ascentage Pharma, FEB 2, 2021, View Source [SID1234574516]). The presentation was delivered by Dr. Hao Sun, from Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital and Dr. Yilong Wu’s research team at Guangdong Lung Cancer Research Institute.

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The World Conference on Lung Cancer, organized by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), is the world’s largest multidisciplinary scientific conference that focuses on the cutting-edge research and clinical advancements in the field of lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies.

APG-115 is an orally administered, selective, small-molecule inhibitor of the MDM2 protein. APG-115 has strong binding affinity to MDM2 and is designed to activate tumor suppression activity of p53 by blocking the MDM2-p53 protein-protein interaction. APG-115 is the first MDM2-p53 inhibitor entering clinical development in China, and is currently being investigated in multiple Phase Ib/II clinical studies in solid tumors and hematologic malignancies in China and the US.

The report presented by Dr. Sun was titled "MDM2 Inhibitor APG-115 Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Tumor Growth in Preclinical Models of NSCLC Harboring STK11 Mutations". Results from this study showed that APG-115 has therapeutic potential in NSCLC harboring STK11 mutations, and shows the potential of a new treatment option for the subgroup of patients with drug resistance to approved PD-1 inhibitors.

STK11/LKB1 and KRAS co-mutations represent one of the three common oncogenic subtypes of KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma. STK11/LKB1 mutations affect the tumor immune microenvironment, and are associated with the reduction of invasive cytotoxic CD8+T-cells in both patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models and mouse models. STK11/LKB1 mutations are a main driver of drug resistance to PD-1 inhibitors in patients with KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma, therefore could predict the poor prognosis of immunotherapy in these patients. In addition, STK11/LKB1 mutations also have implications on cysteine metabolism.

This study showed, compared to the wild-type cell line, the NSCLC cell line harboring STK11/LKB1 mutations was highly sensitive to APG-115. APG-115 achieved its antitumor effects by inducing ferroptosis in the cancer cells harboring STK11/LKB1 mutations. In the PDX models of STK1/LKB1-mutant NSCLC, APG-115 as a single agent displayed potent antitumor activities, achieving a response rate of 66% in PDX models harboring mutant STK11. These results suggest that STK11/LKB1 mutations may be used as a biomarker for potential treatment by MDM2 inhibitors, and APG-115 as a potential therapy for STK11/LKB1-mutant NSCLC and possibly a new treatment option for those patients with primary drug resistance to PD-1 inhibitors.

"There remains to be enormous unmet medical needs in the treatment of NSCLC, particularly with those patients harboring STK11 mutations who are resistant to immunotherapies and therefore lack effective treatment options," said Dr. Yifan Zhai, Chief Medical Officer of Ascentage Pharma. "As the first MDM2-p53 inhibitor entering clinical development in China, APG-115 is currently being investigated in multiple Phase Ib/II clinical studies. Those results reported at WCLC 2020 have demonstrated APG-115’s therapeutic potential in STK11-mutant NSCLC, and provided additional scientific basis warranting the future clinical investigation of the drug candidate in patients with NSCLC, in particular, those with primary drug resistance to PD-1 inhibitors. We will accelerate the clinical development of APG-115 and strive to bring a novel therapeutic to patients in need."

Janssen to Highlight Robust Solid Tumor Portfolio and Pipeline at 2021 ASCO GU

On February 2, 2021 The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson reported it will highlight the depth of its solid tumor portfolio at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Genitourinary (ASCO GU) Cancers Symposium with 12 data presentations, including three company-sponsored oral presentations from the ERLEADA (apalutamide) clinical development program (Press release, Johnson & Johnson, FEB 2, 2021, View Source [SID1234574515]). The virtual meeting will take place February 11-13, 2021.

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"We are committed to the development of innovative therapies for patients with genitourinary cancers for whom there remains a high unmet need," said Craig Tendler, M.D., Vice President, Clinical Development and Global Medical Affairs, Janssen Research & Development, LLC. "This year, we look forward to presenting data from our robust prostate cancer development program, including analyses of the Phase 3 ACIS and TITAN studies, which underscore the clinical value of our portfolio for patients today and set the stage for the next generation of therapies in our pipeline."

New Analyses for ERLEADA Highlight Breadth of Ongoing Clinical Development Program
Data from three Phase 3 registrational clinical trials will be featured in oral presentations:

ACIS: Analysis evaluating ERLEADA (apalutamide) in combination with ZYTIGA (abiraterone acetate) plus prednisone versus abiraterone acetate plus prednisone in patients with chemo-naive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (Abstract #9)
TITAN: Final analysis with close to four years of follow-up data evaluating ERLEADA versus placebo on overall survival (OS) and other endpoints in patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) receiving hormone therapy (Abstract #11)
SPARTAN: Post-hoc analysis data from a biomarker cohort study identifying the molecular signatures associated with long-term response to ERLEADA (Abstract #8)
Combined, the ERLEADA presentations include data from more than 2,000 patients across multiple studies. ERLEADA has shown a statistically significant improvement in OS in its approved indications of metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (TITAN) and non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (SPARTAN).1 Both TITAN and SPARTAN trials confirm the safety profile of ERLEADA, with over four years of patient follow-up demonstrating exposure-adjusted rates of Grade 3 and 4 adverse events for ERLEADA that are comparable to androgen deprivation therapy alone.

Further details about these data and the science that Janssen is advancing for patients with genitourinary cancers will be made available throughout ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) GU via the Janssen Oncology Virtual Newsroom.

Abstracts to be presented at the meeting include:

Abstract No.

Title

Date/Time

ERLEADA (apalutamide)

Oral Presentations

Abstract #8

Molecular Determinants Associated with Long-Term Response to Apalutamide in Non-Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

Thursday,

February 11
12:45 PM – 2:00 PM EST

Abstract #9

Results from ACIS, a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Phase 3 Study of Apalutamide and Abiraterone Acetate Plus Prednisone Versus Abiraterone in Patients with Chemo-Naive Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

Thursday,

February 11
12:45 PM – 2:00 PM EST

Abstract #11

Final Analysis Results From TITAN: A Phase 3 Study of Apalutamide vs Placebo in Patients with Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer Receiving Androgen Deprivation Therapy

Thursday,

February 11
3:30 PM – 4:15 PM EST

Poster Presentations

Abstract #44

Medication Adherence Among Prostate Cancer Patients Using Advanced Oral Therapies

Poster Session: Prostate Cancer – Advanced Disease, available on-demand throughout the meeting

Abstract #64

Health-Related Quality of Life Analysis from a Randomized Phase 2 Trial of Androgen Signaling Inhibitors with or without Androgen Deprivation Therapy for Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: LACOG0415

Poster Session: Prostate Cancer – Advanced Disease, available on-demand throughout the meeting

Abstract #83

Outcomes in Men with Metastatic Castrate-Resistant Prostate Cancer Treated with Early Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Following an Unsatisfactory Response to Androgen Receptor Inhibition as Part of the Phase 2 Dynamic Allocation Modular Sequential (DynAMo) Trial

Poster Session: Prostate Cancer – Advanced Disease, available on-demand throughout the meeting

Abstract #90

Interim Analysis of STARTAR: A Phase 2 Salvage Trial of Androgen Receptor Inhibition with Androgen Deprivation Therapy and Apalutamide with Radiation Therapy Followed by Docetaxel in Men with PSA Recurrent Prostate Cancer After Radical Prostatectomy

Poster Session: Prostate Cancer – Advanced Disease, available on-demand throughout the meeting

BALVERSA (erdafitinib)

Poster Presentation

Abstract #426

Management of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor Treatment-Emergent Adverse Events of Interest in Patients with Locally Advanced or Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma

Poster Session: Urothelial Carcinoma, available on-demand throughout the meeting

Niraparib

Poster Presentation

Abstract #TPS176

AMPLITUDE: A Study of Niraparib in Combination with Abiraterone Acetate Plus Prednisone (AAP) Versus AAP for the Treatment of Patients with Deleterious Germline or Somatic Homologous Recombination Repair Gene-Altered Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer

Trials in Progress Poster Session: Advanced Prostate Cancer, available on-demand throughout the meeting

Other

Poster Presentations

Abstract #47

Real-World Utilization of Docetaxel Among Men with De Novo Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: A Population-Based Study in Men Aged 66 or Older

Poster Session: Prostate Cancer – Advanced Disease, available on-demand throughout the meeting

Abstract #50

Geographic Variation in Systemic Therapy in Men Age 66 Years and Older With De Novo Metastatic Castration Sensitive Prostate Cancer: A Population-Based Study in a Single Payer Health-System

Poster Session: Prostate Cancer – Advanced Disease, available on-demand throughout the meeting

Abstract #149

Prognostic Association Between Common Laboratory Tests and Overall Survival in Men with De Novo Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: A Population-Based Study

Poster Session: Prostate Cancer – Advanced Disease, available on-demand throughout the meeting

About ERLEADA
ERLEADA (apalutamide) is an androgen receptor inhibitor indicated for the treatment of patients with non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) and for the treatment of patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC).1 ERLEADA received U.S. FDA approval for nmCRPC in February 2018, and was approved for mCSPC in September 2019.3 To date, more than 25,000 patients worldwide have been treated with ERLEADA.

For more information, visit www.ERLEADA.com.

About ZYTIGA
ZYTIGA (abiraterone acetate) in combination with prednisone is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), first approved by the U.S. FDA on April 28, 2011.2 Additionally, ZYTIGA was approved for the treatment of high-risk metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) by the U.S. FDA on February 8, 2018. Since its first approval in the U.S. in 2011, ZYTIGA has been approved in combination with prednisone or prednisolone, in more than 100 countries. More than 700,000 patients worldwide have been prescribed ZYTIGA.

About BALVERSA
BALVERSA (erdafitinib) is a kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of adults with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) that has susceptible fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)3 or FGFR2 genetic alterations and progressed during or following at least one line of prior platinum-containing chemotherapy, including within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant platinum-containing chemotherapy. Patients are selected for therapy based on a FDA-approved companion diagnostic for BALVERSA.3 In 2008, Janssen entered into an exclusive worldwide license and collaboration agreement with Astex Pharmaceuticals to develop and commercialize BALVERSA.

For more information, visit www.BALVERSA.com.

About Niraparib
Niraparib is an orally administered, selective poly (ADP ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor that is currently being studied by Janssen for the treatment of patients with prostate cancer. Ongoing studies include the Phase 3 AMPLITUDE study evaluating niraparib in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone in a biomarker-selected patient population with mCSPC; the Phase 3 MAGNITUDE study evaluating niraparib in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone in adults with mCRPC; and QUEST, a Phase 1b/2 study of niraparib combination therapies for the treatment of mCRPC.

In April 2016, Janssen entered a worldwide (except Japan) collaboration and license agreement with TESARO, Inc. (acquired by GSK in 2018), for exclusive rights to niraparib in prostate cancer. In the U.S., niraparib is indicated for the maintenance treatment of adult patients with advanced epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in a complete or partial response to first-line platinum-based chemotherapy; for the maintenance treatment of adult patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in a complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy; for the treatment of adult patients with advanced ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who have been treated with three or more prior chemotherapy regimens and whose cancer is associated with homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) positive status defined by either: a deleterious or suspected deleterious BRCA mutation, or genomic instability and who have progressed more than six months after response to the last platinum-based chemotherapy. Niraparib is currently marketed by GSK as ZEJULA.4

ERLEADA IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION1
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Ischemic Cardiovascular Events — In a randomized study (SPARTAN) of patients with nmCRPC, ischemic cardiovascular events occurred in 4% of patients treated with ERLEADA and 3% of patients treated with placebo. In a randomized study (TITAN) in patients with mCSPC, ischemic cardiovascular events occurred in 4% of patients treated with ERLEADA and 2% of patients treated with placebo. Across the SPARTAN and TITAN studies, 6 patients (0.5%) treated with ERLEADA and 2 patients (0.2%) treated with placebo died from an ischemic cardiovascular event. Patients with current evidence of unstable angina, myocardial infarction, or congestive heart failure within 6 months of randomization were excluded from the SPARTAN and TITAN studies.

Ischemic cardiovascular events, including events leading to death, occurred in patients receiving ERLEADA. Monitor for signs and symptoms of ischemic heart disease. Optimize management of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia. Consider discontinuation of ERLEADA for Grade 3 and 4 events.

Fractures — In a randomized study (SPARTAN) of patients with nmCRPC, fractures occurred in 12% of patients treated with ERLEADA and in 7% of patients treated with placebo. In a randomized study (TITAN) of patients with mCSPC, fractures occurred in 9% of patients treated with ERLEADA and in 6% of patients treated with placebo. Evaluate patients for fracture risk. Monitor and manage patients at risk for fractures according to established treatment guidelines and consider use of bone-targeted agents.

Falls — In a randomized study (SPARTAN), falls occurred in 16% of patients treated with ERLEADA compared with 9% of patients treated with placebo. Falls were not associated with loss of consciousness or seizure. Falls occurred in patients receiving ERLEADA with increased frequency in the elderly. Evaluate patients for fall risk.

Seizure — In 2 randomized studies (SPARTAN and TITAN), 5 patients (0.4%) treated with ERLEADA and 1 patient treated with placebo (0.1%) experienced a seizure. Permanently discontinue ERLEADA in patients who develop a seizure during treatment. It is unknown whether anti-epileptic medications will prevent seizures with ERLEADA. Advise patients of the risk of developing a seizure while receiving ERLEADA and of engaging in any activity where sudden loss of consciousness could cause harm to themselves or others.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity — The safety and efficacy of ERLEADA have not been established in females. Based on its mechanism of action, ERLEADA can cause fetal harm and loss of pregnancy when administered to a pregnant female. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose of ERLEADA [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

ADVERSE REACTIONS
Adverse Reactions — The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) that occurred more frequently in the ERLEADA-treated patients (≥ 2% over placebo) from the randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials (TITAN and SPARTAN) were fatigue, arthralgia, rash, decreased appetite, fall, weight decreased, hypertension, hot flush, diarrhea and fracture.

Laboratory Abnormalities — All Grades (Grade 3-4)

Hematology — In the TITAN study: white blood cell decreased ERLEADA 27% (0.4%), placebo 19% (0.6%). In the SPARTAN study: anemia ERLEADA 70% (0.4%), placebo 64% (0.5%); leukopenia ERLEADA 47% (0.3%), placebo 29% (0%); lymphopenia ERLEADA 41% (2%), placebo 21% (2%)
Chemistry — In the TITAN study: hypertriglyceridemia ERLEADA 17% (3%), placebo 12% (2%). In the SPARTAN study: hypercholesterolemia ERLEADA 76% (0.1%), placebo 46% (0%); hyperglycemia ERLEADA 70% (2%), placebo 59% (1%); hypertriglyceridemia ERLEADA 67% (2%), placebo 49% (0.8%); hyperkalemia ERLEADA 32% (2%), placebo 22% (0.5%)
Rash — In 2 randomized studies, rash was most commonly described as macular or maculopapular. Adverse reactions of rash were 26% with ERLEADA vs 8% with placebo. Grade 3 rashes (defined as covering >30% body surface area [BSA]) were reported with ERLEADA treatment (6%) vs placebo (0.5%).

The onset of rash occurred at a median of 83 days. Rash resolved in 78% of patients within a median of 78 days from onset of rash. Rash was commonly managed with oral antihistamines, topical corticosteroids, and 19% of patients received systemic corticosteroids. Dose reduction or dose interruption occurred in 14% and 28% of patients, respectively. Of the patients who had dose interruption, 59% experienced recurrence of rash upon reintroduction of ERLEADA.

Hypothyroidism — In 2 randomized studies, hypothyroidism was reported for 8% of patients treated with ERLEADA and 2% of patients treated with placebo based on assessments of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) every 4 months. Elevated TSH occurred in 25% of patients treated with ERLEADA and 7% of patients treated with placebo. The median onset was at the first scheduled assessment. There were no Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions. Thyroid replacement therapy, when clinically indicated, should be initiated or dose-adjusted.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Effect of Other Drugs on ERLEADA — Co-administration of a strong CYP2C8 or CYP3A4 inhibitor is predicted to increase the steady-state exposure of the active moieties. No initial dose adjustment is necessary; however, reduce the ERLEADA dose based on tolerability [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Effect of ERLEADA on Other Drugs — ERLEADA is a strong inducer of CYP3A4 and CYP2C19, and a weak inducer of CYP2C9 in humans. Concomitant use of ERLEADA with medications that are primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, CYP2C19, or CYP2C9 can result in lower exposure to these medications. Substitution for these medications is recommended when possible or evaluate for loss of activity if medication is continued. Concomitant administration of ERLEADA with medications that are substrates of UDP-glucuronosyl transferase (UGT) can result in decreased exposure. Use caution if substrates of UGT must be co-administered with ERLEADA and evaluate for loss of activity.

P-gp, BCRP or OATP1B1 Substrates — Apalutamide is a weak inducer of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B1 (OATP1B1) clinically. Concomitant use of ERLEADA with medications that are substrates of P-gp, BCRP, or OATP1B1 can result in lower exposure of these medications. Use caution if substrates of P-gp, BCRP or OATP1B1 must be co-administered with ERLEADA and evaluate for loss of activity if medication is continued.

Please see the full Prescribing Information for ERLEADA.

ZYTIGA IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Hypokalemia, Fluid Retention, and Cardiovascular Adverse Reactions due to Mineralocorticoid Excess – ZYTIGA may cause hypertension, hypokalemia, and fluid retention as a consequence of increased mineralocorticoid levels resulting from CYP17 inhibition [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)]. Monitor patients for hypertension, hypokalemia, and fluid retention at least once a month. Control hypertension and correct hypokalemia before and during treatment.

Closely monitor patients whose underlying medical conditions might be compromised by increases in blood pressure, hypokalemia, or fluid retention, such as those with heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, cardiovascular disease, or ventricular arrhythmia. In postmarketing experience, QT prolongation, and torsades de pointes have been observed in patients who develop hypokalemia while taking ZYTIGA. The safety of ZYTIGA in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction <50% or New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class III or IV heart failure (in COU-AA-301) or NYHA Class II to IV heart failure (in COU-AA-302 and LATITUDE) has not been established because these patients were excluded from these randomized clinical trials [see Clinical Studies (14)].

Adrenocortical Insufficiency – Adrenocortical insufficiency was reported in patients receiving ZYTIGA in combination with prednisone, after an interruption of daily steroids and/or with concurrent infection or stress. Monitor patients for symptoms and signs of adrenocortical insufficiency if prednisone is stopped or withdrawn, if the prednisone dose is reduced, or if the patient experiences unusual stress. Symptoms and signs of adrenocortical insufficiency may be masked by adverse reactions associated with mineralocorticoid excess seen in patients treated with ZYTIGA. Perform appropriate tests, if clinically indicated, to confirm adrenocortical insufficiency. Increased dosages of corticosteroids may be used before, during, and after stressful situations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Hepatotoxicity – In postmarketing experience, there have been ZYTIGA-associated severe hepatic toxicities, including fulminant hepatitis, acute liver failure, and deaths. Measure serum transaminases (ALT and AST) and bilirubin levels prior to starting treatment with ZYTIGA, every two weeks for the first three months of treatment, and monthly thereafter. In patients with baseline moderate hepatic impairment receiving a reduced ZYTIGA dose of 250 mg, measure ALT, AST, and bilirubin prior to the start of treatment, every week for the first month, every two weeks for the following two months of treatment, and monthly thereafter. Promptly measure serum total bilirubin, AST, and ALT if clinical symptoms or signs suggestive of hepatotoxicity develop. Elevations of AST, ALT, or bilirubin from the patient’s baseline should prompt more frequent monitoring. If at any time AST or ALT rise above five times the upper limit of normal (ULN) or the bilirubin rises above three times the ULN, interrupt ZYTIGA treatment and closely monitor liver function. Re-treatment with ZYTIGA at a reduced dose level may take place only after return of liver function tests to the patient’s baseline or to AST and ALT less than or equal to 2.5X ULN and total bilirubin less than or equal to 1.5X ULN [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Permanently discontinue ZYTIGA for patients who develop a concurrent elevation of ALT greater than 3X ULN and total bilirubin greater than 2X ULN in the absence of biliary obstruction or other causes responsible for the concurrent elevation.

The safety of ZYTIGA re-treatment of patients who develop AST or ALT greater than or equal to 20X ULN and/or bilirubin greater than or equal to 10X ULN is unknown.

Increased Fractures and Mortality in Combination with Radium Ra 223 Dichloride – ZYTIGA plus prednisone/prednisolone is not recommended for use in combination with radium Ra 223 dichloride outside of clinical trials. Increased incidences of fractures (28.6% vs 11.4%) and deaths (38.5% vs 35.5%) have been observed in patients who received ZYTIGA plus prednisone/prednisolone in combination with radium Ra 223 dichloride compared to patients who received placebo in combination with ZYTIGA plus prednisone/prednisolone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity – The safety and efficacy of ZYTIGA have not been established in females. Based on animal reproductive studies and mechanism of action, ZYTIGA can cause fetal harm and loss of pregnancy when administered to a pregnant female. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with ZYTIGA and for 3 weeks after the last dose of ZYTIGA [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)]. ZYTIGA should not be handled by females who are or may become pregnant [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)].

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Adverse Reactions – The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) are fatigue, arthralgia, hypertension, nausea, edema, hypokalemia, hot flush, diarrhea, vomiting, upper respiratory tract infection, cough, and headache.

The most common laboratory abnormalities (>20%) are anemia, elevated alkaline phosphatase, hypertriglyceridemia, lymphopenia, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, and hypokalemia.

Drug Interactions – Based on in vitro data, ZYTIGA is a substrate of CYP3A4. In a drug interaction trial, co-administration of rifampin, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, decreased exposure of abiraterone by 55%. Avoid concomitant strong CYP3A4 inducers during ZYTIGA treatment. If a strong CYP3A4 inducer must be co-administered, increase the ZYTIGA dosing frequency only during the co-administration period [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. In a dedicated drug interaction trial, co-administration of ketoconazole, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, had no clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of abiraterone.

ZYTIGA is an inhibitor of the hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C8. Avoid co-administration with CYP2D6 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index. If alternative treatments cannot be used, consider a dose reduction of the CYP2D6 substrate drug. In a CYP2C8 drug interaction trial in healthy subjects, the AUC of pioglitazone, a CYP2C8 substrate, was increased by 46% when administered with a single dose of ZYTIGA. Patients should be monitored closely for signs of toxicity related to a CYP2C8 substrate with a narrow therapeutic index if used concomitantly with ZYTIGA.

Use in Specific Populations –

Females and Males of Reproductive Potential: Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception.
Do not use ZYTIGA in patients with baseline severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C).
Please read the full Prescribing Information and Patient Information for ZYTIGA.

BALVERSA IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Warnings and Precautions
Ocular Disorders – BALVERSA can cause ocular disorders, including central serous retinopathy/retinal pigment epithelial detachment (CSR/RPED) resulting in visual field defect.

CSR/RPED was reported in 25% of patients treated with BALVERSA, with a median time to first onset of 50 days. Grade 3 CSR/RPED, involving central field of vision, was reported in 3% of patients. CSR/RPED resolved in 13% of patients and was ongoing in 13% of patients at the study cutoff. CSR/RPED led to dose interruptions and reductions in 9% and 14% of patients, respectively, and 3% of patients discontinued BALVERSA. Dry eye symptoms occurred in 28% of patients during treatment with BALVERSA and were Grade 3 in 6% of patients. All patients should receive dry eye prophylaxis with ocular demulcents as needed.

Perform monthly ophthalmological examinations during the first 4 months of treatment and every 3 months afterwards, and urgently at any time for visual symptoms. Ophthalmological examination should include assessment of visual acuity, slit lamp examination, fundoscopy, and optical coherence tomography. Withhold BALVERSA when CSR occurs and permanently discontinue if it does not resolve within 4 weeks or if Grade 4 in severity. For ocular adverse reactions, follow the dose modification guidelines [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Hyperphosphatemia – Increases in phosphate levels are a pharmacodynamic effect of BALVERSA [see Pharmacodynamics (12.2)]. Hyperphosphatemia was reported as adverse reaction in 76% of patients treated with BALVERSA. The median onset time for any grade event of hyperphosphatemia was 20 days (range: 8–116) after initiating BALVERSA. Thirty-two percent of patients received phosphate binders during treatment with BALVERSA. Monitor for hyperphosphatemia and follow the dose modification guidelines when required [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3)].

Embryo-fetal Toxicity – Based on the mechanism of action and findings in animal reproduction studies, BALVERSA can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. In a rat embryo-fetal toxicity study, erdafitinib was embryotoxic and teratogenic at exposures less than the human exposures at all doses studied. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to the fetus. Advise female patients of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with BALVERSA and for one month after the last dose. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with BALVERSA and for one month after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)].

Most common adverse reactions including laboratory abnormalities ≥20% :

Phosphate increased (76%), stomatitis (56%), fatigue (54%), creatinine increased (52%), diarrhea (47%), dry mouth (45%), onycholysis (41%), alanine aminotransferase increased (41%), alkaline phosphatase increased (41%), sodium decreased (40%), decreased appetite (38%), albumin decreased (37%), dysgeusia (37%), hemoglobin decreased (35%), dry skin (34%), aspartate aminotransferase increased (30%), magnesium decreased (30%), dry eye (28%), alopecia (26%), palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (26%), constipation (28%), phosphate decreased (24%), abdominal pain (23%), calcium increased (22%), nausea (21%), and musculoskeletal pain (20%). The most common Grade 3 or greater adverse reactions (>1%) were stomatitis (9%), nail dystrophy*, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (6%), paronychia (3%), nail disorder*, keratitis†, onycholysis* (10%), and hyperphosphatemia.

*Included within onycholysis. †Included within dry eye.

An adverse reaction with a fatal outcome in 1% of patients was acute myocardial infarction.
Serious adverse reactions occurred in 41% of patients, including eye disorders (10%).
Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 13% of patients. The most frequent reasons for permanent discontinuation included eye disorders (6%).
Dosage interruptions occurred in 68% of patients. The most frequent adverse reactions requiring dosage interruption included hyperphosphatemia (24%), stomatitis (17%), eye disorders (17%), and palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (8%).
Dose reductions occurred in 53% of patients. The most frequent adverse reactions for dose reductions included eye disorders (23%), stomatitis (15%), hyperphosphatemia (7%), palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (7%), paronychia (7%), and nail dystrophy (6%).
Drug Interactions

Moderate CYP2C9 or strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Consider alternative agents or monitor closely for adverse reactions. (7.1)
Strong CYP2C9 or CYP3A4 inducers: Avoid concomitant use with BALVERSA. (7.1)
Moderate CYP2C9 or CYP3A4 inducers: Increase BALVERSA dose up to 9 mg. (7.1)
Serum phosphate level-altering agents: Avoid concomitant use with agents that can alter serum phosphate levels before the initial dose modification period. (2.3, 7.1)
CYP3A4 substrates: Avoid concomitant use with sensitive CYP3A4 substrates with narrow therapeutic indices. (7.2)
OCT2 substrates: Consider alternative agents or consider reducing the dose of OCT2 substrates based on tolerability. (7.2)
P-gp substrates: Separate BALVERSA administration by at least 6 hours before or after administration of P-gp substrates with narrow therapeutic indices. (7.2)
Use in Specific Populations

Lactation – Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions from erdafitinib in a breastfed child, advise lactating women not to breastfeed during treatment with BALVERSA and for one month following the last dose.

Citius Pharmaceuticals to Present Update on Mino-Lok and Other Therapies at the Virtual Investor Conferences Small and Microcap Showcase on February 4

On February 2, 2021 Citius Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ("Citius" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: CTXR), a specialty pharmaceutical company developing and commercializing critical care drug products, reported that it will present at the upcoming Virtual Investor Conferences Small and Microcap Showcase on Thursday, February 4, 2021 (Press release, Citius Pharmaceuticals, FEB 2, 2021, View Source [SID1234574514]). Citius Chairman of the Board Leonard Mazur will present an update on the Company’s lead product candidate MinoLok, currently in Phase 3 trials, and an overview of three other active programs.

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Date: Thursday, February 4, 2021
Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
Link: https://bit.ly/3brvZ8w

This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event. It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

Secura Bio Announces New Data Regarding the Combination of FARYDAK® (panobinostat) with Subcutaneous Bortezomib and Dexamethasone

On February 2, 2021 Secura Bio, Inc. ("SBI") – (www.securabio.com), an integrated, commercial-stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the worldwide development and commercialization of impactful oncology therapies, reported the publication of new data confirming the efficacy of the approved dose/schedule of FARYDAK and demonstrating a considerably improved safety profile for FARYDAK in combination with subcutaneous ("SC") bortezomib (as opposed to intravenous administration) and oral dexamethasone (Press release, Secura Bio, FEB 2, 2021, View Source [SID1234574513]).

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Panobinostat ("Pano"), an oral pan-histone deacetylase inhibitor, is approved for the treatment of relapsed or relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma in combination with bortezomib (Velcade) and dexamethasone in patients who have received ≥2 prior lines of therapy, including bortezomib and an immunomodulatory agent ("IMiD"). The original registrational trial, PANORAMA-1, used intravenous ("IV") bortezomib, and demonstrated a significant progression-free survival benefit with FARYDAK / bortezomib / dexamethasone (FVd) as compared with placebo / bortezomib / dexamethasone (Vd); adverse events ("AEs") were expectedly reported as being more frequent with FVd (San-Miguel J. et al., Lancet Oncol. 20). A new study, PANORAMA-3, was undertaken to optimize FVd dosing by investigating three different Pano regimens with SC bortezomib (and oral dexamethasone).

In an oral poster presentation at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) and in a subsequent publication in Lancet Oncology, results were reported for PANORAMA-3: Efficacy and Safety of the FVd combination in Relapsed or Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma. This study was a randomized, open-label, international, multicenter phase 2 study.

Eligible patients were ≥18 years old with 1‒4 prior lines of therapy, including an IMiD. Patients primarily refractory to bortezomib were excluded. Patients were randomized 1:1:1 to Pano 20 mg three times weekly (TIW; the currently approved dosing regimen); Pano 20 mg twice weekly (BIW), or Pano 10 mg three times weekly (TIW), all administered in 21-day cycles. Randomization was stratified by number of prior treatment lines (1 vs 2 vs 3 or 4) and by age at screening (≤75 vs >75 years). For Cycles 1–4, all patients ≤75 years old received SC bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 BIW and oral dexamethasone 20 mg on the day of and day after bortezomib injection. Patients aged ≤75 years from Cycle 5 onwards, and patients >75 years for all cycles, received SC bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 once weekly (QW) and oral dexamethasone 20 mg on the day of and day after bortezomib injection.

Patients were treated until progressive disease or death, or until discontinuation due to toxicity or withdrawal of consent. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR; IMWG 2011 criteria) after up to 8 treatment cycles by Independent Review Committee assessment. Secondary endpoints included best response, time to response (TTR), duration of response (DOR), and safety.

Pano 20mg TIW dosing demonstrated efficacy results comparable to and more durable than those seen in PANORAMA-1, with an ORR of 62.2% (N=78), compared to 60.7% (n=387) in PANORAMA 1; and a median duration of response of 22 months, compared to 13.1 months in PANORAMA 1. For the 20mg TIW group, the incidence of diarrhea across all grades was 66.5% (versus 68% in PANORAMA-1), with Grade >3 diarrhea occurring in 11.5% of patients (versus 25% in PANORAMA-1). Further details of the efficacy and safety results can be found HERE for the ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) abstract and HERE for the Lancet Oncology paper.

The conclusion of the authors was that the 20 mg TIW and 20 mg BIW dosing regimens provided favorable outcomes, with the most durable and deepest responses observed in the 20 mg TIW arm. As noted in part above, rates of several important AEs, including severe diarrhea, with Pano 20 mg TIW were considerably lower in PANORAMA-3 than those observed with the same dosing regimen in PANORAMA- 1, suggesting SC administration of bortezomib meaningfully improves tolerability of the triplet, as compared with IV administration. All three regimens of FVd proved generally manageable. Pano 20 mg TIW yielded the greatest durable efficacy, most notably a median DOR of 22 months.