On October 8, 2016 Genentech, a member of the Roche Group (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY), reported data from the positive, pivotal Phase III OAK study of TECENTRIQ (atezolizumab) at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) (Free ESMO Whitepaper) 2016 Annual Meeting in Copenhagen, Denmark (Press release, Genentech, OCT 8, 2016, View Source [SID:SID1234515659]). The study showed TECENTRIQ helped people live a median of 13.8 months, 4.2 months longer than those treated with docetaxel chemotherapy (median overall survival [OS]: 13.8 vs. 9.6 months; HR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.62 – 0.87). The OAK study evaluated people with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose disease had progressed on or after treatment with one or more platinum-based chemotherapy (second-line and third-line). The study enrolled people regardless of their programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) status and included both squamous and non-squamous disease types. Adverse events (AEs) were consistent with those observed in previous TECENTRIQ studies. Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo! "TECENTRIQ is the first and only anti-PD-L1 cancer immunotherapy to help people with metastatic NSCLC live significantly longer than chemotherapy regardless of their PD-L1 expression level or their disease histology," said Sandra Horning, M.D., chief medical officer and head of Global Product Development. "Even people whose disease had low or no observed PD-L1 expression still showed a significant benefit from the medicine."
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The FDA granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) for TECENTRIQ for the treatment of people with PD-L1-positive NSCLC whose disease has progressed during or after platinum-based chemotherapy (and appropriate targeted therapy for those with an EGFR mutation-positive or ALK-positive tumor). Genentech’s Biologics License Application (BLA) for NSCLC was granted Priority Review with an action date of Oct. 19, 2016.
Genentech has eight Phase III lung studies underway evaluating TECENTRIQ alone or in combination with other treatments in people with early and advanced stages of lung cancer.
Full results from the OAK study will be presented in the Presidential Symposium in a presentation by Fabrice Barlesi, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France (abstract #LBA44) on Sunday, Oct. 9, 4:25 p.m. Central European Time (CET). Primary analysis from OAK, a randomized Phase III study comparing atezolizumab with docetaxel in advanced NSCLC
About the OAK study
OAK is a global, multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled Phase III study that evaluated the efficacy and safety of TECENTRIQ compared with docetaxel in 1,225 people with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC whose disease had progressed following previous treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy, with the primary analysis consisting of the first 850 randomized patients. Approximately one-quarter of patients had squamous disease (26 percent). Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive either TECENTRIQ administered intravenously at 1200 mg every 3 weeks or docetaxel administered intravenously at 75 mg/m2 every 3 weeks until unacceptable toxicity or disease progression. The co-primary endpoints were OS in all randomized patients (intention-to-treat [ITT] population) and in a PD-L1-selected subgroup in the primary analysis population. A summary of the OAK results is included below.
Overall survival results
Study group
ITT
(first 850 randomized patients)
TC1/2/3 or IC1/2/3
( PD-L1 expression on >1% TC or IC)
TC0 or IC0
( PD-L1 expression on <1% TC and IC)
Treatment arm
T = TECENTRIQ
D = Docetaxel
T
D
T
D
T
D
N=
425
425
241
222
180
199
Median OS (months)
13.8
9.6
15.7
10.3
12.6
8.9
HR*
(95% CI)
P** value
HR 0.73,
95% CI: 0.62 – 0.87
P = .0003
HR 0.74,
95% CI: 0.58 – 0.93
P = .0102
HR 0.75,
95% CI: 0.59 – 0.96
P = . 0205
Overall survival by histology
Histology
Non-squamous
Squamous
Treatment arm
T = TECENTRIQ
D = Docetaxel
T
D
T
D
N=
313
315
112
110
Median OS
(months)
15.6
11.2
8.9
7.7
Unstratified HR
(95% CI)
HR 0.73,
95% CI: 0.60 – 0.89
HR 0.73,
95% CI: 0.54 – 0.98
Safety-evaluable population (N=1187)
· Adverse events were consistent with those observed in previous studies of TECENTRIQ.
· Fewer people receiving TECENTRIQ experienced treatment-related Grade 3-4 AEs compared to docetaxel (15% vs. 43%).
· AEs occurring more frequently (5% or more) for TECENTRIQ were musculoskeletal pain (11% for TECENTRIQ vs. 4% for docetaxel) and pruritus (8% for TECENTRIQ vs. 3% for docetaxel).
· There were no deaths related to TECENTRIQ and 1 related to docetaxel.
The demographics and baseline characteristics were balanced between two arms. Patients had a median age of 64 years and 61% were male. 25% had 2 prior lines of therapies, and 18% never smoked. Baseline ECOG performance status was 0 (37%) or 1 (63%). About 17% of people in the docetaxel arm received immunotherapy as the subsequent therapy.
*Unstratified for the TC0 and IC0 subgroup, stratified for others.
**Stratified log-rank p value.
CI: confidence interval; ITT: intention-to-treat; HR: hazard ratio; TC: tumor cells; IC: tumor-infiltrating immune cells; PD-L1: programmed death-ligand 1; OS: overall survival
About Lung Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that more than 224, 000 Americans will be diagnosed with lung cancer in 2016, and NSCLC accounts for up to 85 percent of all lung cancers. It is estimated that approximately 60 percent of lung cancer diagnoses in the United States are made when the disease is in the most advanced stages.
About TECENTRIQ (atezolizumab)
TECENTRIQ is a monoclonal antibody designed to bind with a protein called PD-L1. TECENTRIQ is designed to bind to PD-L1 expressed on tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells, blocking its interactions with both PD-1 and B7.1 receptors. By inhibiting PD-L1, TECENTRIQ may enable the activation of T cells. TECENTRIQ may also affect normal cells.
TECENTRIQ is the first and only anti-PDL1 cancer immunotherapy approved by the FDA, and is indicated for the treatment of people with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) who have disease progression during or following platinum-based chemotherapy, or whose disease has worsened within 12 months of receiving platinum-based chemotherapy before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant). This indication for TECENTRIQ is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.
TECENTRIQ U.S. Indication (pronounced ‘tē-SEN-trik’)
TECENTRIQ is a prescription medicine used to treat:
A type of bladder cancer called urothelial carcinoma. TECENTRIQ may be used when bladder cancer has spread or cannot be removed by surgery (advanced urothelial carcinoma) and,
The patient has tried chemotherapy that contains platinum, and it did not work or is no longer working.
It is not known if TECENTRIQ is safe and effective in children.
Important Safety Information
Important Information About TECENTRIQ
TECENTRIQ can cause the immune system to attack normal organs and tissues in many areas of the body and can affect the way they work. These problems can sometimes become serious or life-threatening and can lead to death.
Getting medical treatment right away may help keep these problems from becoming more serious. The healthcare provider may treat the patient with corticosteroid or hormone replacement medicines. The healthcare provider may delay or completely stop treatment with TECENTRIQ if severe side effects occur.
Patients should call or see their healthcare provider right away if they get any symptoms of the following problems or these symptoms get worse.
TECENTRIQ can cause serious side effects, including:
Lung Problems (pneumonitis) – Signs and symptoms of pneumonitis may include: new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain
Liver Problems (hepatitis) – Signs and symptoms of hepatitis may include: yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, severe nausea or vomiting, pain on the right side of the stomach area (abdomen), drowsiness, dark urine (tea colored), bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, feeling less hungry than usual
Intestinal Problems (colitis) – Signs and symptoms of colitis may include: diarrhea (loose stools) or more bowel movements than usual, blood in the stools or dark, tarry, sticky stools, severe stomach area (abdomen) pain or tenderness
Hormone Gland Problems (especially the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands and pancreas) – Signs and symptoms that the hormone glands are not working properly may include: headaches that will not go away or unusual headaches, extreme tiredness, weight gain or weight loss, dizziness or fainting, feeling more hungry or thirsty than usual, hair loss, changes in mood or behavior, such as decreased sex drive, irritability, or forgetfulness, feeling cold, constipation, voice gets deeper, urinating more often than usual, nausea or vomiting, stomach area (abdomen) pain
Nervous System Problems (neuropathy, meningoencephalitis) – Signs of nervous system problems may include: severe muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, fever, confusion, changes in mood or behavior, extreme sensitivity to light, neck stiffness
Inflammation of the Eyes – Symptoms may include blurry vision, double vision, other vision problems, eye pain or redness
Severe Infections – Symptoms of infection may include: fever, cough, frequent urination, flu-like symptoms, pain when urinating
Severe Infusion Reactions – Signs and symptoms of infusion reactions may include: chills or shaking, itching or rash, flushing, shortness of breath or wheezing, dizziness, fever, feeling like passing out, back or neck pain, facial swelling
Before receiving TECENTRIQ, patients should tell their healthcare provider about all of their medical conditions, including if they:
have immune system problems such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or lupus; have had an organ transplant; have lung or breathing problems; have liver problems; have a condition that affects the nervous system, such as myasthenia gravis or Guillain-Barre syndrome; or are being treated for an infection.
are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
o TECENTRIQ can harm an unborn baby.
o If patients are able to become pregnant, they should use an effective method of birth control during treatment and for at least 5 months after the last dose of TECENTRIQ.
are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
o It is not known if TECENTRIQ passes into the breast milk.
o Do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least 5 months after the last dose of TECENTRIQ.
The most common side effects of TECENTRIQ include:
feeling tired
decreased appetite
nausea
urinary tract infection
fever
constipation
These are not all the possible side effects of TECENTRIQ. Patients should ask their healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information.
Patients should tell their healthcare provider about all of the medicines they take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.
Report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088, or View Source . Report side effects to Genentech at (888) 835-2555.
Please visit View Source for the TECENTRIQ full Prescribing Information for additional Important Safety Information.
Author: [email protected]
Yervoy (ipilimumab) Improves Overall Survival in Fully Resected Stage III Melanoma Patients From Phase 3 Study
On October 8, 2016 Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE: BMY) reported superior efficacy with Yervoy 10 mg/kg versus placebo on all survival endpoints in the Phase 3 trial CA184-029 (EORTC 18071) evaluating stage III melanoma patients who are at high risk of recurrence following complete surgical resection (Press release, Bristol-Myers Squibb, OCT 8, 2016, View Source [SID:SID1234515652]). Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo! In the study, Yervoy compared with placebo significantly improved overall survival (OS) (HR=0.72 [95.1% CI: 0.58-0.88; p=0.001]), a secondary endpoint, with five-year OS rates at 65.4% in the Yervoy group and 54.4% in the placebo group. Distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), a secondary endpoint, was also significantly improved versus placebo (HR=0.76 [95.8% CI: 0.64-0.92; p=0.002]) and had five-year DMFS rates of 48.3% and 38.9% in the Yervoy and placebo groups, respectively. In this updated five-year analysis, the recurrence-free survival (primary endpoint) benefit observed previously with Yervoy was maintained (HR=0.76 [95% CI: 0.64-0.89; p<0.001). The safety profile remained consistent with the initial analysis, with no new deaths or safety signals. The most common grade 3/4 immune-related adverse events in the Yervoy group were gastrointestinal (16.1%), hepatic (10.8%), and endocrine (7.9%).
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These data were featured today, October 8, during the 2016 European Society for Medical Oncology Congress Press Program and simultaneously published in The New England Journal of Medicine. The data will also be presented today during a Presidential Symposium from 5:00-5:15 p.m. CEST (Abstract #LBA2_PR).
"Despite surgical intervention, most patients with stage III melanoma experience disease recurrence and progress to metastatic disease, reinforcing the unmet need for effective systemic therapies in the adjuvant setting," said Alexander M.M. Eggermont, M.D., Ph.D., director general, Cancer Institute Gustave Roussy in Villejuif, France. "The impact of Yervoy on overall survival, distant-metastasis free survival, and recurrence-free survival observed in study -029 offers physicians new insights in the treatment of adjuvant melanoma."
In stage III melanoma, the disease has not yet spread to distant lymph nodes or to other parts of the body and requires surgical resection of the primary tumor as well as the involved lymph nodes. The stage III patient population is heterogeneous with disease-specific survival rates of 78%, 59%, and 40% for stage IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC melanoma, respectively.
"The results from study -029 are important data for the scientific community and underscore our ongoing dedication to improving survival across stages of melanoma," said Vicki Goodman, M.D., development lead, Melanoma and Genitourinary Cancers, Bristol-Myers Squibb. "Yervoy is the first immune checkpoint inhibitor to demonstrate a statistically significant survival benefit for high-risk patients with fully resected stage III melanoma. With further evaluation of our Immuno-Oncology agents and different dosing options, we remain committed to further research across the full continuum of melanoma treatment."
About CA184-029 (EORTC 18071)
CA184-029 (EORTC 18071), a study initiated in 2008 by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), is a Phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of Yervoy 10 mg/kg in the adjuvant setting for high-risk stage III melanoma. The independently-run trial involved 99 centers across 19 countries from the EORTC’s pan-European network and specialized infrastructure. The trial enrolled eligible patients, which included those ≥18 years of age who underwent complete resection of stage III cutaneous melanoma (excluding lymph node metastasis ≤1 mm or in-transit metastasis). In the trial, patients were randomized to receive Yervoy 10 mg/kg (n=475) or placebo (n=476) as an intravenous infusion every 3 weeks for 4 doses, followed by Yervoy 10 mg/kg or placebo every 12 weeks from Week 24 to Week 156 (three years), or until documented disease recurrence or unacceptable toxicity. Yervoy was studied across a broad range of patient characteristics, including patients with stage IIIa with lymph node >1 mm (20%), IIIb (44%) or IIIc with no in-transit metastases (36%); 42% had ulcerated primary lesions, and 58% had macroscopic lymph node involvement.
The primary endpoint was recurrence-free survival (RFS), defined as the time between the date of randomization and the date of first recurrence or death, as assessed by the Independent Review Committee. This analysis was the basis of the Yervoy approval in the United States for adjuvant treatment of melanoma at a dose of 10 mg/kg in October 2015. Secondary endpoints include overall survival (OS), distant metastases-free survival (DMFS), safety and health-related quality of life.
In the study, Yervoy significantly improved RFS, the primary endpoint, versus placebo across all patient groups. Updated five-year results demonstrated RFS remained significantly longer for Yervoy versus placebo, with a median RFS of 27.6 months (95% CI: 19.3-37.2) versus 17.1 months (95% CI: 13.6-21.6), respectively (HR=0.76; 95% CI: 0.64-0.89; p<0.001).
Yervoy also demonstrated a significant improvement in OS, a secondary endpoint of the study, with a 28% reduction in the risk of death versus placebo (HR=0.72 [95% CI: 0.58-0.88; p=0.001]) and an estimated five-year OS rate of 65.4% (95% CI: 60.8-69.6) for Yervoy versus 54.4% (95% CI: 49.7-58.9) for placebo. In addition, Yervoy showed a 24% reduction in the risk of developing distant metastases versus placebo (HR=0.76 [95.8% CI: 0.64-0.92; p=0.002]), with an estimated five-year DMFS rate of 48.3% with Yervoy versus 38.9% with placebo. The median DMFS was 48.3 months with Yervoy versus 27.5 months with placebo.
The safety profile of Yervoy based on this updated analysis was consistent with previously reported findings from CA184-029 (EORTC 18071). In those initial findings, five patient deaths occurred due to drug-related adverse events (AE); no new deaths have since been reported. Among the 471 patients who received Yervoy, 465 (98.7%) experienced an AE of any grade, and 255 patients (54.1%) experienced a grade 3 or 4 AE, whereas among 474 placebo-treated patients, 432 (91.1%) experienced an AE of any grade, and 124 patients (26.2%) experienced a grade 3 or 4 AE. Immune-related AEs were more frequent with Yervoy than with placebo. The most common grade 3/4 immune-related AEs in the Yervoy group were gastrointestinal (16.1%), hepatic (10.8%), and endocrine (7.9%). The median time to onset of on-study grade 2-5 immune-related AEs ranged from 4.0 weeks (skin immune-related adverse events) to 13.1 weeks (neurological immune-related adverse events). Endocrine grade 2-4 immune-related AEs resolved in 51.5% of patients, and median time to resolution was 54.3 weeks. The majority (82-97%) of all other grade 2-4 immune-related AEs resolved, and median time to resolution ranged from 4.0 to 8.0 weeks.
About Advanced Melanoma
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer characterized by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) located in the skin. Metastatic melanoma is the deadliest form of the disease and occurs when cancer spreads beyond the surface of the skin to the other organs, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, brain or other areas of the body. Melanoma is separated into five staging categories (Stages 0-IV) based on the in-situ feature, thickness, and ulceration of the tumor, whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, and how far the cancer has spread beyond lymph nodes. Stage III melanoma has reached the regional lymph nodes but has not yet spread to distant lymph nodes or to other parts of the body (metastasized) and requires surgical resection of the primary tumor as well as the local lymph nodes.
Bristol-Myers Squibb: At the Forefront of Immuno-Oncology Science & Innovation
At Bristol-Myers Squibb, patients are at the center of everything we do. Our vision for the future of cancer care is focused on researching and developing transformational Immuno-Oncology (I-O) medicines that will raise survival expectations in hard-to-treat cancers and will change the way patients live with cancer.
We are leading the scientific understanding of I-O through our extensive portfolio of investigational and approved agents, including the first combination of two I-O agents in metastatic melanoma, and our differentiated clinical development program, which is studying broad patient populations across more than 20 types of cancers with 11 clinical-stage molecules designed to target different immune system pathways. Our deep expertise and innovative clinical trial designs uniquely position us to advance the science of combinations across multiple tumors and potentially deliver the next wave of I-O combination regimens with a sense of urgency. We also continue to pioneer research that will help facilitate a deeper understanding of the role of immune biomarkers and inform which patients will benefit most from I-O therapies.
We understand making the promise of I-O a reality for the many patients who may benefit from these therapies requires not only innovation on our part but also close collaboration with leading experts in the field. Our partnerships with academia, government, advocacy and biotech companies support our collective goal of providing new treatment options to advance the standards of clinical practice.
About Yervoy
Yervoy is a recombinant, human monoclonal antibody that binds to the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4). CTLA-4 is a negative regulator of T-cell activity. Yervoy binds to CTLA-4 and blocks the interaction of CTLA-4 with its ligands, CD80/CD86. Blockade of CTLA-4 has been shown to augment T-cell activation and proliferation, including the activation and proliferation of tumor infiltrating T-effector cells. Inhibition of CTLA-4 signaling can also reduce T-regulatory cell function, which may contribute to a general increase in T-cell responsiveness, including the anti-tumor immune response. On March 25, 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Yervoy 3 mg/kg monotherapy for patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma. Yervoy is approved for unresectable or metastatic melanoma in more than 50 countries. There is a broad, ongoing development program in place for Yervoy spanning multiple tumor types.
U.S. Indications and Important Safety Information for YERVOY (ipilimumab)
Indications
YERVOY (ipilimumab) is indicated for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma.
YERVOY (ipilimumab) is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of patients with cutaneous melanoma with pathologic involvement of regional lymph nodes of more than 1 mm who have undergone complete resection, including total lymphadenectomy.
Important Safety Information
WARNING: IMMUNE-MEDIATED ADVERSE REACTIONS
YERVOY (ipilimumab) can result in severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions. These immune-mediated reactions may involve any organ system; however, the most common severe immune-mediated adverse reactions are enterocolitis, hepatitis, dermatitis (including toxic epidermal necrolysis), neuropathy, and endocrinopathy. The majority of these immune-mediated reactions initially manifested during treatment; however, a minority occurred weeks to months after discontinuation of YERVOY.
Permanently discontinue YERVOY and initiate systemic high-dose corticosteroid therapy for severe immune-mediated reactions.
Assess patients for signs and symptoms of enterocolitis, dermatitis, neuropathy, and endocrinopathy and evaluate clinical chemistries including liver function tests (LFTs), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level, and thyroid function tests, at baseline and before each dose.
Recommended Dose Modifications
Endocrine: Withhold YERVOY for systemic endocrinopathy. Resume YERVOY in patients with complete or partial resolution of adverse reactions (Grade 0-1) and who are receiving <7.5 mg prednisone or equivalent per day. Permanently discontinue YERVOY for symptomatic reactions lasting 6 weeks or longer or an inability to reduce corticosteroid dose to 7.5 mg prednisone or equivalent per day.
Ophthalmologic: Permanently discontinue YERVOY for Grade 2-4 reactions not improving to Grade 1 within 2 weeks while receiving topical therapy or requiring systemic treatment. All Other Organ Systems: Withhold YERVOY for Grade 2 adverse reactions. Resume YERVOY in patients with complete or partial resolution of adverse reactions (Grade 0-1) and who are receiving <7.5 mg prednisone or equivalent per day. Permanently discontinue YERVOY for Grade 2 reactions lasting 6 weeks or longer, an inability to reduce corticosteroid dose to 7.5 mg prednisone or equivalent per day, and Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions.
Immune-mediated Enterocolitis:
Immune-mediated enterocolitis, including fatal cases, can occur with YERVOY. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of enterocolitis (such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, mucus or blood in stool, with or without fever) and of bowel perforation (such as peritoneal signs and ileus). In symptomatic patients, rule out infectious etiologies and consider endoscopic evaluation for persistent or severe symptoms. Withhold YERVOY for moderate enterocolitis; administer anti-diarrheal treatment and, if persistent for >1 week, initiate systemic corticosteroids (0.5 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent). Permanently discontinue YERVOY in patients with severe enterocolitis and initiate systemic corticosteroids (1-2 mg/kg/day of prednisone or equivalent). Upon improvement to ≤Grade 1, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue over at least 1 month. In clinical trials, rapid corticosteroid tapering resulted in recurrence or worsening symptoms of enterocolitis in some patients. Consider adding anti-TNF or other immunosuppressant agents for management of immune-mediated enterocolitis unresponsive to systemic corticosteroids within 3-5 days or recurring after symptom improvement. In patients receiving YERVOY 3 mg/kg in Trial 1, severe, life-threatening, or fatal (diarrhea of ≥7 stools above baseline, fever, ileus, peritoneal signs; Grade 3-5) immune-mediated enterocolitis occurred in 34 YERVOY-treated patients (7%) and moderate (diarrhea with up to 6 stools above baseline, abdominal pain, mucus or blood in stool; Grade 2) enterocolitis occurred in 28 YERVOY-treated patients (5%). Across all YERVOY-treated patients (n=511), 5 (1%) developed intestinal perforation, 4 (0.8%) died as a result of complications, and 26 (5%) were hospitalized for severe enterocolitis. Infliximab was administered to 5 (8%) of the 62 patients with moderate, severe, or life-threatening immune-mediated enterocolitis following inadequate response to corticosteroids. In patients receiving YERVOY 10 mg/kg in Trial 2, Grade 3-5 immune-mediated enterocolitis occurred in 76 patients (16%) and Grade 2 enterocolitis occurred in 68 patients (14%). Seven (1.5%) developed intestinal perforation and 3 patients (0.6%) died as a result of complications.
Immune-mediated Hepatitis:
Immune-mediated hepatitis, including fatal cases, can occur with YERVOY. Monitor LFTs (hepatic transaminase and bilirubin levels) and assess patients for signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity before each dose of YERVOY. In patients with hepatotoxicity, rule out infectious or malignant causes and increase frequency of LFT monitoring until resolution. Withhold YERVOY in patients with Grade 2 hepatotoxicity. Permanently discontinue YERVOY in patients with Grade 3-4 hepatotoxicity and administer systemic corticosteroids (1-2 mg/kg/day of prednisone or equivalent). When LFTs show sustained improvement or return to baseline, initiate corticosteroid tapering and continue over 1 month. Across the clinical development program for YERVOY, mycophenolate treatment has been administered in patients with persistent severe hepatitis despite high-dose corticosteroids. In patients receiving YERVOY 3 mg/kg in Trial 1, severe, life-threatening, or fatal hepatotoxicity (AST or ALT elevations >5× the ULN or total bilirubin elevations >3× the ULN; Grade 3-5) occurred in 8 YERVOY-treated patients (2%), with fatal hepatic failure in 0.2% and hospitalization in 0.4%. An additional 13 patients (2.5%) experienced moderate hepatotoxicity manifested by LFT abnormalities (AST or ALT elevations >2.5× but ≤5× the ULN or total bilirubin elevation >1.5× but ≤3× the ULN; Grade 2). In a dose-finding trial, Grade 3 increases in transaminases with or without concomitant increases in total bilirubin occurred in 6 of 10 patients who received concurrent YERVOY (3 mg/kg) and vemurafenib (960 mg BID or 720 mg BID). In patients receiving YERVOY 10 mg/kg in Trial 2, Grade 3-4 immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 51 patients (11%) and moderate Grade 2 immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 22 patients (5%). Liver biopsy performed in 6 patients with Grade 3-4 hepatitis showed evidence of toxic or autoimmune hepatitis.
Immune-mediated Dermatitis:
Immune-mediated dermatitis, including fatal cases, can occur with YERVOY. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of dermatitis such as rash and pruritus. Unless an alternate etiology has been identified, signs or symptoms of dermatitis should be considered immune-mediated. Treat mild to moderate dermatitis (e.g., localized rash and pruritus) symptomatically; administer topical or systemic corticosteroids if there is no improvement within 1 week. Withhold YERVOY in patients with moderate to severe signs and symptoms. Permanently discontinue YERVOY in patients with severe, life-threatening, or fatal immune-mediated dermatitis (Grade 3-5). Administer systemic corticosteroids (1-2 mg/kg/day of prednisone or equivalent). When dermatitis is controlled, corticosteroid tapering should occur over a period of at least 1 month. In patients receiving YERVOY 3 mg/kg in Trial 1, severe, life-threatening, or fatal immune-mediated dermatitis (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, or rash complicated by full thickness dermal ulceration, or necrotic, bullous, or hemorrhagic manifestations; Grade 3-5) occurred in 13 YERVOY-treated patients (2.5%); 1 patient (0.2%) died as a result of toxic epidermal necrolysis and 1 additional patient required hospitalization for severe dermatitis. There were 63 patients (12%) with moderate (Grade 2) dermatitis. In patients receiving YERVOY 10 mg/kg in Trial 2, Grade 3-4 immune-mediated dermatitis occurred in 19 patients (4%). There were 99 patients (21%) with moderate Grade 2 dermatitis.
Immune-mediated Neuropathies:
Immune-mediated neuropathies, including fatal cases, can occur with YERVOY. Monitor for symptoms of motor or sensory neuropathy such as unilateral or bilateral weakness, sensory alterations, or paresthesia. Withhold YERVOY in patients with moderate neuropathy (not interfering with daily activities). Permanently discontinue YERVOY in patients with severe neuropathy (interfering with daily activities), such as Guillain-Barre-like syndromes. Institute medical intervention as appropriate for management for severe neuropathy. Consider initiation of systemic corticosteroids (1-2 mg/kg/day of prednisone or equivalent) for severe neuropathies. In patients receiving YERVOY 3 mg/kg in Trial 1, 1 case of fatal Guillain-Barré syndrome and 1 case of severe (Grade 3) peripheral motor neuropathy were reported. Across the clinical development program of YERVOY, myasthenia gravis and additional cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome have been reported. In patients receiving YERVOY 10 mg/kg in Trial 2, Grade 3-5 immune-mediated neuropathy occurred in 8 patients (2%); the sole fatality was due to complications of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Moderate Grade 2 immune-mediated neuropathy occurred in 1 patient (0.2%).
Immune-mediated Endocrinopathies:
Immune-mediated endocrinopathies, including life-threatening cases, can occur with YERVOY. Monitor patients for clinical signs and symptoms of hypophysitis, adrenal insufficiency (including adrenal crisis), and hyper- or hypothyroidism. Patients may present with fatigue, headache, mental status changes, abdominal pain, unusual bowel habits, and hypotension, or nonspecific symptoms which may resemble other causes such as brain metastasis or underlying disease. Unless an alternate etiology has been identified, signs or symptoms should be considered immune-mediated. Monitor clinical chemistries, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level, and thyroid function tests at the start of treatment, before each dose, and as clinically indicated based on symptoms. In a limited number of patients, hypophysitis was diagnosed by imaging studies through enlargement of the pituitary gland. Withhold YERVOY in symptomatic patients and consider referral to an endocrinologist. Initiate systemic corticosteroids (1-2 mg/kg/day of prednisone or equivalent) and initiate appropriate hormone replacement therapy. In patients receiving YERVOY 3 mg/kg in Trial 1, severe to life-threatening immune-mediated endocrinopathies (requiring hospitalization, urgent medical intervention, or interfering with activities of daily living; Grade 3-4) occurred in 9 YERVOY-treated patients (1.8%). All 9 patients had hypopituitarism, and some had additional concomitant endocrinopathies such as adrenal insufficiency, hypogonadism, and hypothyroidism. Six of the 9 patients were hospitalized for severe endocrinopathies. Moderate endocrinopathy (requiring hormone replacement or medical intervention; Grade 2) occurred in 12 patients (2.3%) and consisted of hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, hypopituitarism, and 1 case each of hyperthyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome. The median time to onset of moderate to severe immune-mediated endocrinopathy was 2.5 months and ranged up to 4.4 months after the initiation of YERVOY. In patients receiving YERVOY 10 mg/kg in Trial 2, Grade 3-4 immune-mediated endocrinopathies occurred in 39 patients (8%) and Grade 2 immune-mediated endocrinopathies occurred in 93 patients (20%). Of the 39 patients with Grade 3-4 immune-mediated endocrinopathies, 35 patients had hypopituitarism (associated with 1 or more secondary endocrinopathies, e.g., adrenal insufficiency, hypogonadism, and hypothyroidism), 3 patients had hyperthyroidism, and 1 had primary hypothyroidism. The median time to onset of Grade 3-4 immune-mediated endocrinopathy was 2.2 months (range: 2 days-8 months). Twenty-seven (69.2%) of the 39 patients were hospitalized for immune-mediated endocrinopathies. Of the 93 patients with Grade 2 immune-mediated endocrinopathy, 74 had primary hypopituitarism (associated with 1 or more secondary endocrinopathy, e.g., adrenal insufficiency, hypogonadism, and hypothyroidism), 9 had primary hypothyroidism, 3 had hyperthyroidism, 3 had thyroiditis with hypo- or hyperthyroidism, 2 had hypogonadism, 1 had both hyperthyroidism and hypopituitarism, and 1 subject developed Graves’ ophthalmopathy. The median time to onset of Grade 2 immune-mediated endocrinopathy was 2.1 months (range: 9 days-19.3 months).
Other Immune-mediated Adverse Reactions, Including Ocular Manifestations:
Permanently discontinue YERVOY for clinically significant or severe immune-mediated adverse reactions. Initiate systemic corticosteroids (1-2 mg/kg/day of prednisone or equivalent) for severe immune-mediated adverse reactions. Administer corticosteroid eye drops for uveitis, iritis, or episcleritis. Permanently discontinue YERVOY for immune-mediated ocular disease unresponsive to local immunosuppressive therapy. In Trial 1, the following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions were seen in <1% of YERVOY-treated patients: nephritis, pneumonitis, meningitis, pericarditis, uveitis, iritis, and hemolytic anemia. In Trial 2, the following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions were seen in <1% of YERVOY-treated patients unless specified: eosinophilia (2.1%), pancreatitis (1.3%), meningitis, pneumonitis, sarcoidosis, pericarditis, uveitis and fatal myocarditis. Across 21 dose-ranging trials administering YERVOY at doses of 0.1 to 20 mg/kg (n=2478), the following likely immune-mediated adverse reactions were also reported with <1% incidence: angiopathy, temporal arteritis, vasculitis, polymyalgia rheumatica, conjunctivitis, blepharitis, episcleritis, scleritis, iritis, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, erythema multiforme, psoriasis, arthritis, autoimmune thyroiditis, neurosensory hypoacusis, autoimmune central neuropathy (encephalitis), myositis, polymyositis, ocular myositis, hemolytic anemia, and nephritis.
Embyro-fetal Toxicity
Based on its mechanism of action, YERVOY can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. The effects of YERVOY are likely to be greater during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with a YERVOY-containing regimen and for 3 months after the last dose of YERVOY.
Lactation
It is not known whether YERVOY is secreted in human milk. Advise women to discontinue nursing during treatment with YERVOY and for 3 months following the final dose.
Common Adverse Reactions:
The most common adverse reactions (≥5%) in patients who received YERVOY at 3 mg/kg were fatigue (41%), diarrhea (32%), pruritis (31%), rash (29%), and colitis (8%). The most common adverse reactions (≥5%) in patients who received YERVOY at 10 mg/kg were rash (50%), diarrhea (49%), fatigue (46%), pruritus (45%), headache (33%), weight loss (32%), nausea (25%), pyrexia (18%), colitis (16%), decreased appetite (14%), vomiting (13%), and insomnia (10%).
Please see U.S. Full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING regarding immune-mediated adverse reactions.
Cambrex Completes Acquisition of PharmaCore, Inc.
On October 7, 2016 Cambrex Corporation (NYSE:CBM), a leading manufacturer of small molecule innovator and generic Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), reported that it has completed the acquisition of PharmaCore, Inc., a privately-owned company located in High Point, North Carolina, specializing in developing, manufacturing and scaling up small molecule APIs for clinical phase projects. This completes the transaction initially announced on September 26, 2016 (Press release, Cambrex, OCT 7, 2016, View Source [SID:SID1234515685]). With the acquisition of PharmaCore, which has been renamed Cambrex High Point, Inc., Cambrex enhances its capabilities and expertise to efficiently develop early clinical phase products and new technologies.
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Moleculin Announces Accelerated Plan for Clinical Trial Drug Production
On October 7, 2016 Moleculin Biotech, Inc., (NASDAQ: MBRX) ("Moleculin" or the "Company"), a preclinical and clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on the development of anti-cancer drug candidates, some of which are based on license agreements with The University of Texas System on behalf of the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, reported it has secured an agreement with Dermin Sp. Zo. O. ("Dermin") to utilize Dermin’s supply of Annamycin for its upcoming clinical trial, substantially reducing the expenditures required of Moleculin for drug product and shortening the time required to produce clinical supplies (Press release, Moleculin, OCT 7, 2016, View Source [SID:SID1234515658]).
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"This was an important agreement and key milestone to be reached as it clearly shortens the pathway as well as lowers the expense involved in our clinical timeline and go to market strategy," commented Walter Klemp, Chairman and Acting CEO of Moleculin. "With this agreement in place, our drug product expense for our upcoming clinical trial will be substantially below what we had previously budgeted. Additionally, Dermin’s existing supply alleviates any potential drug production constraints and advances our ability to begin our next trial expeditiously."
Moleculin previously licensed Annamycin to Dermin within a limited region in Europe, enabling Dermin to deploy Polish grant funds toward producing Annamycin. The agreement reached between the two companies allows Moleculin to utilize this Annamycin in its upcoming clinical trials rather than having to produce new Annamycin for its own use. Dermin benefits from a data sharing arrangement giving it access to Moleculin’s clinical data on a faster timeline than it would be able develop on its own.
Mr. Klemp concluded, "We are pleased with this key agreement in place and remain focused on our upcoming milestones. We look forward to beginning our expanded clinical trials on Annamycin by the first half of 2017."
Myriad Announces Four Poster Presentations at the 2016 European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Annual Meeting
On October 7, 2016 Myriad Genetics, Inc. (NASDAQ:MYGN), a leader in molecular diagnostics and personalized medicine, reported that four poster presentations will be featured at the 2016 European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) (Free ESMO Whitepaper) annual meeting, October 7-11, 2016 in Copenhagen, Denmark (Press release, Myriad Genetics, OCT 7, 2016, View Source [SID:SID1234515650]).
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"Myriad is a pioneer in personalized medicine and is committed to improving the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer," said Jerry Lanchbury, Ph.D., chief scientific officer, Myriad Genetics. "We are excited to present these new studies at ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) that highlight and advance the science of our next-generation companion diagnostics to help inform and improve the treatment of cancer patients."
Please visit the Myriad booth #408 at ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) for more information. Abstracts are available online at: View Source Follow Myriad on Twitter via @MyriadGenetics to stay informed about news and updates from the Company.
Poster Presentations
Title: Outcomes of clinical testing for tumor BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene analysis for 354 patients: First experience with tumor companion diagnostic for PARP inhibitors.
Presenter: Karen Copeland, M.S.
Date: Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016. 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Location: Poster 874P (Abstract 4031). Hall E.
This study assessed 354 patients with ovarian cancer undergoing BRCA1 and BRCA2 full sequencing and large rearrangement DNA analysis using the Tumor BRACAnalysis CDx test. The results show that, of the 354 samples analyzed, 93 (26.3 percent) tested positive for a pathogenic mutation; 57 were found in BRCA1 and 37 in BRCA2. Of the pathogenic mutations detected, 93.6 percent were sequencing variants and 6.4 percent were large rearrangements. These findings highlight the utility of the Tumor BRACAnalysis CDx test to accurately detect BRCA mutations in patients with ovarian cancer.
Title: The molecular landscape of genome instability in prostate cancer.
Presenter: Kirsten Timms, Ph.D.
Date: Monday, Oct. 10, 2016. 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Location: Poster 115P (Abstract 3247). Hall E.
In this study, DNA from 95 prostate cancer (PC) tumors was analyzed to generate homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) and Microsatellite instability (MSI) and cell cycle progression (CCP) scores. Additionally, 45 DNA damage repair (DDR) genes were sequenced and were considered non-functional if both alleles were mutated and/or deleted. If the second allele was intact, these genes were considered defective but functional. The results showed that non-functional DDR genes (CDK12, PALB2, RPA1, ATM, and BRCA2) were observed in seven tumors and DDR gene defects in eight genes were observed in 11 tumors. Importantly, the HRD score was significantly associated with DDR mutation status, Gleason score and CCP score. A significant proportion of aggressive prostate tumors carry molecular signatures associated with response to therapies targeting DDR deficiencies or to immune-therapeutics. This study demonstrates the importance of assessing both alleles when identifying prostate tumors with DDR gene mutations. In the study, an HRD score of ≥20 identified three times as many potential responders to HRD-dependent therapies compared to non-functional DDR gene mutations.
Title: Characteristics of homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) in paired primary and recurrent high-grade serous ovarian cancer.
Presenter: Jai Patel.
Date: Monday, Oct. 10, 2016. 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Location: Poster 113P (Abstract 3290). Hall E.
In this study, the myChoice HRD test was used to evaluate paired primary and recurrent tumors from 54 patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), the vast majority of whom were treated with adjuvant carboplatin and paclitaxel. The objective was to determine if changes in the genomic profile of primary and recurrent tumors might impact the myChoice HRD score. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the genomic markers evaluated between primary and recurrent tumors. Importantly, the myChoice HRD test was not impacted by changes in the genomic profile. This finding suggests that testing recurrent HGSOC tumors would not alter treatment strategies relative to analysis of the primary tumor.
Title: Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) score shows superior association with outcome compared to its individual score components (LOH, TAI, and LST scores) in platinum treated serous ovarian cancer.
Presenter: Jerry Lanchbury, Ph.D.
Date: Monday, Oct. 10, 2016. 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Location: Poster 112P (Abstract 2504). Hall E.
The myChoice HRD score is the sum of three independent measures of HRD, including loss of heterozygosity (LOH), telomeric-allelic imbalance (TAI) and large-scale state transitions (LST). This study compared the myChoice HRD score to its individual score components (LOH, TAI, and LST). The results showed that the myChoice HRD score is a superior prognostic marker of HR deficiency than the individual scores. There were a significant number of discrepancies between the myChoice HRD score and the individual component, which demonstrated a risk of both false positives and negatives. These findings support the use of myChoice HRD, rather than the individual biomarkers, to inform treatment decisions for patients.
About Tumor BRACAnalysis CDx
Tumor BRACAnalysis CDx is a companion diagnostic test for identifying both germline and somatic cancer-causing mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Currently, Tumor BRACAnalysis CDx is a CE-marked genomic test designed to detect the presence of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation in ovarian tumor tissue. Additionally, Myriad is actively collaborating with leading pharmaceutical companies and academic centers to further develop Tumor BRACAnalysis CDx as a companion diagnostic for use with certain PARP inhibitors, platinum-based drugs and other chemotherapeutic agents.