Stemline Therapeutics Announces Four ELZONRIS Presentations, Including an Oral Presentation, at Upcoming ASH Meeting

On November 2, 2018 Stemline Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: STML), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of novel oncology therapeutics, reported that ELZONRIS (tagraxofusp; SL-401), a novel targeted therapeutic directed to CD123, will be featured in four presentations, including an oral presentation, at the 2018 American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting and Exposition, to be held December 1-4, 2018 in San Diego, CA (Press release, Stemline Therapeutics, NOV 2, 2018, View Source [SID1234530630]).

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Additionally, the Company is hosting an investor/analyst event on December 3, 2018 and plans to provide updates on the progress of its pre-commercial activities, disease awareness campaign, and market expansion efforts.

Details on the ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) presentations are as follows:

BPDCN – Oral Presentation
Title: Results of Pivotal Phase 2 Trial of Tagraxofusp (SL-401) in Patients with Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm (BPDCN)
Presenter: Naveen Pemmaraju, MD; MD Anderson Cancer Center
Abstract: 765
Session: 616. Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Novel Therapy, Excluding Transplantation: New Treatment Strategies
Date/Time: Monday, December 3, 2018 3:15 PM PT
Location: Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, Seaport Ballroom F

Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML)
Title: Results from Ongoing Phase 1/2 Trial of Tagraxofusp (SL-401) in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML)
Presenter: Mrinal Patnaik, MBBS; Mayo Clinic
Abstract: 1821
Session: 637. Myelodysplastic Syndromes – Clinical Studies: Poster I
Date/Time: Saturday, December 1, 2018 6:15 PM–8:15 PM PT
Location: San Diego Convention Center, Hall GH

Myelofibrosis (MF)
Title: Results from Ongoing Phase 1/2 Trial of Tagraxofusp (SL-401) in Patients with Intermediate or High Risk Relapsed/Refractory Myelofibrosis
Presenter: Naveen Pemmaraju, MD; MD Anderson Cancer Center
Abstract: 1773
Session: 634. Myeloproliferative Syndromes: Clinical: Poster I
Date/Time: Saturday, December 1, 2018 6:15 PM–8:15 PM PT
Location: San Diego Convention Center, Hall GH

Tagraxofusp + Hypomethylating Agents: Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML)
Title: Evaluation of Combination Tagraxofusp (SL-401) and Hypomethylating Agent (HMA) Therapy for the Treatment of Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML)
Presenter: Aishwarya Krishnan, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Abstract: 1809
Session: 636. Myelodysplastic Syndromes – Basic and Translational Studies: Poster I
Date/Time: Saturday, December 1, 2018 6:15 PM – 8:15 PM PT
Location: San Diego Convention Center, Hall GH

Ivan Bergstein, M.D., CEO of Stemline Therapeutics, commented, "We are honored that ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) has selected the BPDCN pivotal results for oral presentation. This selection underscores the heightening awareness of the disease – BPDCN, the target – CD123, and the clinical impact of the drug candidate – ELZONRIS. In addition, our regulatory team continues to work diligently in an effort to make ELZONRIS available to patients as quickly as possible, and our commercial team continues to execute on our broad-based pre-launch initiatives. This includes the build-out of our sales, marketing and reimbursement teams as well as continuing to advance our disease awareness campaign. In parallel, we are excited to present updated clinical data from our ongoing clinical trials in patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) and myelofibrosis (MF). Based on these data, we are enthusiastic about our plans to implement pivotal trials, or cohorts, in these devastating malignancies."

About BPDCN
Please visit the BPDCN disease awareness booth at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2018 (#205) and the website: www.bpdcninfo.com.

Asterias Biotherapeutics to Report Third Quarter 2018 Results on November 12, 2018

On November 2, 2018 Asterias Biotherapeutics, Inc. (NYSE American: AST), a biotechnology company dedicated to developing cell-based therapeutics to treat neurological conditions associated with demyelination and cellular immunotherapies to treat cancer, reported that it will release third quarter 2018 financial and operating results on Monday, November 12, 2018 after the close of the U.S. financial markets (Press release, BioTime, NOV 2, 2018, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2375072 [SID1234530688]). The Company will host a conference call and webcast on November 12, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT to discuss the results and corporate developments.

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For both "listen-only" participants and those participants who wish to take part in the question-and-answer portion of the call, the dial-in number in the U.S./Canada is 888-394-8218. For international participants outside the U.S./Canada, the dial-in number is 323-794-2591. For all callers, refer to Conference ID 6651165. To access the live webcast, go to View Source

A replay of the conference call will be available for one month beginning about two hours after the conclusion of the live call, by calling toll-free (from U.S./Canada) 888-203-1112; international callers dial 719-457-0820. Use the Conference ID 6651165. Additionally, the archived webcast will be available at View Source

FibroGen to Report Third Quarter 2018 Financial Results on Thursday, November 8, 2018

On November 2, 2018 FibroGen, Inc. (NASDAQ: FGEN), a biopharmaceutical company, reported that it will report third quarter 2018 financial results on Thursday, November 8, 2018, after market close, and will host a conference call to discuss financial results and provide a business update at 5:00 p.m. ET (2:00 p.m. PT) (Press release, FibroGen, NOV 2, 2018, View Source;p=irol-newsArticle&ID=2375179 [SID1234530689]).

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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

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Conference Call and Audio Webcast
Interested parties may access a live audio webcast of the conference call via the investor section of the FibroGen website, www.fibrogen.com. It is recommended that listeners access the website 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to download and install any necessary audio software. A replay of the webcast will be available shortly after the call for a period of two weeks. To access the replay, please dial (888) 843-7419 (domestic) or (630) 652-3042 (international), and use passcode 4778 0296#.

Dial-In Information
Live (U.S./Canada): (888) 771-4371
Live (International): (847) 585-4405
Confirmation number: 47780296

Amgen To Present New Data Showcasing Extensive Portfolio And Exciting Early Oncology Pipeline At ASH 2018

On November 1, 2018 Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) reported that new clinical data will be presented at the 60th American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting & Exposition in San Diego, Dec. 1-4, 2018 (Press release, Amgen, NOV 1, 2018, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2374893 [SID1234530491]). Data across an array of malignancies will be featured in 45 abstracts, including nine oral presentations, from the Company’s broad portfolio and early-stage pipeline.

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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

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The breadth of data to be presented at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) this year represent Amgen’s continued search for answers to complex scientific questions, leveraging its long-standing expertise in blood cancers to develop early immuno-oncology pipeline candidates and innovative biologics in areas of significant unmet need. Notable data include two oral presentations on first-in-human studies evaluating two early-stage bi-specific T cell engager (BiTE) molecules – AMG 420 and AMG 330. BiTE molecules are designed to harness the immune system and can be modified in an effort to enable cytotoxic T cells in the body to recognize cancer cells and destroy them. Additional data from Amgen’s hematology franchise will also be featured, including long-term overall survival (OS) data for BLINCYTO (blinatumomab) in patients who had achieved complete minimal residual disease (MRD) response and for once-weekly dosing of KYPROLIS (carfilzomib) in combination with dexamethasone.

"For nearly four decades, Amgen has been at the forefront of cutting-edge science that has helped change treatment paradigms for patients with difficult-to-treat blood cancers. Today, we are on the cusp of a new wave of advances that harness the body’s own immune system to transform cancer care," said David M. Reese, M.D., executive vice president of Research and Development at Amgen. "We’re excited to present the first data from our early oncology pipeline, including two investigational BiTE candidates, which demonstrate our commitment to tackling the toughest scientific questions for cancer patients."

A complete listing of abstracts can be found on the ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) website. Notable abstracts of interest include:

Expanding Investigation of BiTE Across Hematologic Malignancies

A Phase 1 First-in-Human Study of AMG 330, an Anti-CD33 Bispecific T-Cell Engager (BiTE) Antibody Construct, in Relapsed/Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia (R/R AML)
Abstract #25, Oral Presentation, Saturday, Dec. 1 at 7:30 a.m. PT in Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, Seaport Ballroom F
Open-Label, Phase 2 Study of Blinatumomab as Second Salvage Therapy in Adults with Relapsed/Refractory Aggressive B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Abstract #400, Oral Presentation, Sunday, Dec. 2 at 12:45 p.m. PT in Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, Pacific Ballroom 20
Treatment with AMG 420, an anti-B-Cell Maturation Antigen (BCMA) Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE) Antibody Construct, Induces Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) Negative Complete Responses in Relapsed and/or Refractory (R/R) Multiple Myeloma (MM) Patients: Results of a First-in-Human (FIH) Phase I Dose Escalation Study
Abstract #1010, Oral Presentation, Monday, Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. PT in San Diego Convention Center, Ballroom 20D
Blinatumomab for Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) in Adults with B-Cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (BCP-ALL): Median Overall Survival (OS) Is Not Reached in Complete MRD Responders at a Median Follow-up of 53.1 Months
Abstract #554, Oral Presentation, Monday, Dec. 3 at 7:15 a.m. PT in San Diego Convention Center, Ballroom 20A
Evaluating Outcomes in Multiple Myeloma

Carfilzomib in Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma Patients with Early or Late Relapse Following Prior Therapy: An Analysis of Overall Survival in Subgroups from the Randomized Phase 3 ASPIRE and ENDEAVOR Trials
Abstract #1964, Poster Presentation, Saturday Dec. 1 at 6:15 p.m. PT in San Diego Convention Center, Hall GH
Efficacy and Safety of Once-weekly vs Twice-weekly Carfilzomib Plus Dexamethasone: Subgroup Analysis of the Phase 3 A.R.R.O.W. Study (NCT02412878) by Prior Lines
Abstract #3244, Poster Presentation, Sunday, Dec. 2 from 6 p.m. PT in San Diego Convention Center, Hall GH
Once Weekly Versus Twice Weekly Carfilzomib Dosing in Patients With Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma (A.R.R.O.W.): Efficacy and Safety Analyzed by Age Group
Abstract #3277, Poster Presentation, Sunday, Dec. 2 from 6 p.m. PT in San Diego Convention Center, Hall GH
Carfilzomib-Lenalidomide-Dexamethasone Versus Bortezomib-Lenalidomide-Dexamethasone in Real-World Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: Results from a Prospective, Longitudinal, Observational Study (CoMMpass)
Abstract #799, Oral Presentation, Monday, Dec. 3 at 2:45 p.m. PT in San Diego Convention Center, Room 6F
Could Patients with Multiple Myeloma (MM) Derive Additional Benefit From Their Treatments? Real World Evidence for Carfilzomib Dosing Intensity on Survival and Treatment Progression
Abstract #836, Oral Presentation, Monday, Dec. 3 at 3 p.m. PT in San Diego Convention Center, Room 25B
A Phase 1b Study of Oprozomib with Dexamethasone or Pomalidomide and Dexamethasone in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Abstract #803, Oral Presentation, Monday, Dec. 3 at 3:45 p.m. PT in San Diego Convention Center, Room 6F
Amgen Webcast Investor Meeting
Amgen will host a webcast investor meeting at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2018 on Monday, Dec. 3 at 8 p.m. PT. David M. Reese, M.D., executive vice president of Research and Development at Amgen, along with members of Amgen’s clinical development team and clinical investigators, will participate at the investor meeting to discuss Amgen’s oncology program and data presented at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2018.

Live audio of the conference call will be broadcast over the internet simultaneously and will be available to members of the news media, investors and the general public.

The webcast, as with other selected presentations regarding developments in Amgen’s business given at certain investor and medical conferences, can be accessed on Amgen’s website, www.amgen.com, under Investors. Information regarding presentation times, webcast availability and webcast links are noted on Amgen’s Investor Relations Events Calendar. The webcast will be archived and available for replay for at least 90 days after the event.

About BiTE Technology
Bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) antibody construct is an innovative technology that can be engineered to target any tumor antigen expressed by any type of cancer. The protein molecules are designed to kill malignant cells using the patient’s own immune system by bridging T cells to tumor cells. BiTE antibody construct helps connect the T cells to the targeted cell, with the intent of causing T cells to inject toxins which trigger cancer cell death (apoptosis). Amgen is developing BiTE antibody constructs to uniquely (or specifically) target numerous hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.

About BLINCYTO (blinatumomab)
BLINCYTO is a bispecific CD19-directed CD3 T cell engager (BiTE) immunotherapy that binds to CD19 expressed on the surface of cells of B-lineage origin and CD3 expressed on the surface of effector T cells. BLINCYTO was granted breakthrough therapy and priority review designations by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2014, and now carries full approval in the U.S. for the treatment of relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor ALL in adults and children. In the U.S., BLINCYTO is also approved under accelerated approval for the treatment of adults and children with B-cell precursor ALL in first or second complete remission with minimal residual disease (MRD) greater than or equal to 0.1 percent.

BLINCYTO is now approved in 57 countries, including all member countries in the European Union and the European Economic Area, Canada, Japan, and Australia.

BLINCYTO U.S. Product Safety Information

Indication and Important Safety Information, including Boxed WARNINGS, for BLINCYTO (blinatumomab) for injection, for intravenous use

INDICATION

BLINCYTO is indicated for the treatment of adults and children with:

B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in first or second complete remission with minimal residual disease (MRD) greater than or equal to 0.1%. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on MRD response rate and hematological relapse-free survival. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.
Relapsed or refractory Bcell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME and NEUROLOGICAL TOXICITIES

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), which may be life-threatening or fatal, occurred in patients receiving BLINCYTO. Interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO as recommended.
Neurological toxicities, which may be severe, life-threatening or fatal, occurred in patients receiving BLINCYTO. Interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO as recommended.
Contraindications

BLINCYTO is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to blinatumomab or to any component of the product formulation.

Warnings and Precautions

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): CRS, which may be life-threatening or fatal, occurred in patients receiving BLINCYTO. The median time to onset of CRS is 2 days after the start of infusion. Closely monitor patients for signs and symptoms of serious adverse events such as fever, headache, nausea, asthenia, hypotension, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), increased total bilirubin (TBILI), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). The manifestations of CRS after treatment with BLINCYTO overlap with those of infusion reactions, capillary leak syndrome (CLS), and hemophagocytic histiocytosis/macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). In clinical trials of BLINCYTO, CRS was reported in 15% of patients with relapsed or refractory ALL and in 7% of patients with MRD-positive ALL. Interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO as outlined in the PI.
Neurological Toxicities: Approximately 65% of patients receiving BLINCYTO in clinical trials experienced neurological toxicities. The median time to the first event was within the first 2 weeks of BLINCYTO treatment and the majority of events resolved. The most common (≥ 10%) manifestations of neurological toxicity were headache and tremor. Severe, life‐threatening, or fatal neurological toxicities occurred in approximately 13% of patients, including encephalopathy, convulsions, speech disorders, disturbances in consciousness, confusion and disorientation, and coordination and balance disorders. Manifestations of neurological toxicity included cranial nerve disorders. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms and interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO as outlined in the PI.
Infections: Approximately 25% of patients receiving BLINCYTO in clinical trials experienced serious infections such as sepsis, pneumonia, bacteremia, opportunistic infections, and catheter-site infections, some of which were life-threatening or fatal. Administer prophylactic antibiotics and employ surveillance testing as appropriate during treatment. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of infection and treat appropriately, including interruption or discontinuation of BLINCYTO as needed.
Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS), which may be life-threatening or fatal, has been observed. Preventive measures, including pretreatment nontoxic cytoreduction and on-treatment hydration, should be used during BLINCYTO treatment. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of TLS and interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO as needed to manage these events.
Neutropenia and Febrile Neutropenia, including life-threatening cases, have been observed. Monitor appropriate laboratory parameters (including, but not limited to, white blood cell count and absolute neutrophil count) during BLINCYTO infusion and interrupt BLINCYTO if prolonged neutropenia occurs.
Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines: Due to the possibility of neurological events, including seizures, patients receiving BLINCYTO are at risk for loss of consciousness, and should be advised against driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery while BLINCYTO is being administered.
Elevated Liver Enzymes: Transient elevations in liver enzymes have been associated with BLINCYTO treatment with a median time to onset of 3 days. In patients receiving BLINCYTO, although the majority of these events were observed in the setting of CRS, some cases of elevated liver enzymes were observed outside the setting of CRS, with a median time to onset of 19 days. Grade 3 or greater elevations in liver enzymes occurred in approximately 7% of patients outside the setting of CRS and resulted in treatment discontinuation in less than 1% of patients. Monitor ALT, AST, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and TBILI prior to the start of and during BLINCYTO treatment. BLINCYTO treatment should be interrupted if transaminases rise to > 5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) or if TBILI rises to > 3 times ULN.
Pancreatitis: Fatal pancreatitis has been reported in patients receiving BLINCYTO in combination with dexamethasone in clinical trials and the post-marketing setting. Evaluate patients who develop signs and symptoms of pancreatitis and interrupt or discontinue BLINCYTO and dexamethasone as needed.
Leukoencephalopathy: Although the clinical significance is unknown, cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes showing leukoencephalopathy have been observed in patients receiving BLINCYTO, especially in patients previously treated with cranial irradiation and antileukemic chemotherapy.
Preparation and administration errors have occurred with BLINCYTO treatment. Follow instructions for preparation (including admixing) and administration in the PI strictly to minimize medication errors (including underdose and overdose).
Immunization: Vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least 2 weeks prior to the start of BLINCYTO treatment, during treatment, and until immune recovery following last cycle of BLINCYTO.
Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients due to Benzyl Alcohol Preservative: Serious and fatal adverse reactions including "gasping syndrome," which is characterized by central nervous system depression, metabolic acidosis, and gasping respirations, can occur in neonates and infants treated with benzyl alcohol-preserved drugs including BLINCYTO (with preservative). When prescribing BLINCYTO (with preservative) for pediatric patients, consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources including BLINCYTO (with preservative) and other drugs containing benzyl alcohol. The minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which serious adverse reactions may occur is not known. Due to the addition of bacteriostatic saline, 7-day bags of BLINCYTO solution for infusion with preservative contain benzyl alcohol and are not recommended for use in any patients weighing < 22 kg.
Adverse Reactions

The most common adverse reactions (≥ 20%) in clinical trial experience of patients with MRD-positive B-cell precursor ALL (BLAST Study) treated with BLINCYTO were pyrexia, infusion related reactions, headache, infections (pathogen unspecified), tremor, and chills. Serious adverse reactions were reported in 61% of patients. The most common serious adverse reactions (≥2%) included pyrexia, tremor, encephalopathy, aphasia, lymphopenia, neutropenia, overdose, device related infection, seizure, and staphylococcal infection.
The most common adverse reactions (≥ 20%) in clinical trial experience of patients with Philadelphia chromosome-negative relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor ALL (TOWER Study) treated with BLINCYTO were infections (bacterial and pathogen unspecified), pyrexia, headache, infusion-related reactions, anemia, febrile neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and neutropenia. Serious adverse reactions were reported in 62% of patients. The most common serious adverse reactions (≥ 2%) included febrile neutropenia, pyrexia, sepsis, pneumonia, overdose, septic shock, CRS, bacterial sepsis, device related infection, and bacteremia.
Adverse reactions that were observed more frequently (≥ 10%) in the pediatric population compared to the adult population were pyrexia (80% vs. 61%), hypertension (26% vs. 8%), anemia (41% vs. 24%), infusion-related reaction (49% vs. 34%), thrombocytopenia (34% vs. 21%), leukopenia (24% vs. 11%), and weight increased (17% vs. 6%).
In pediatric patients less than 2 years old (infants), the incidence of neurologic toxicities was not significantly different than for the other age groups, but its manifestations were different; the only event terms reported were agitation, headache, insomnia, somnolence, and irritability. Infants also had an increased incidence of hypokalemia (50%) compared to other pediatric age cohorts (15-20%) or adults (17%).
Dosage and Administration Guidelines

BLINCYTO is administered as a continuous intravenous infusion at a constant flow rate using an infusion pump which should be programmable, lockable, non-elastomeric, and have an alarm.
It is very important that the instructions for preparation (including admixing) and administration provided in the full Prescribing Information are strictly followed to minimize medication errors (including underdose and overdose).
Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNINGS and Medication Guide, for BLINCYTO.

About Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer, characterized by a recurring pattern of remission and relapse.1 It is a rare disease that accounts for approximately two percent of all cancers.2 Worldwide, approximately 114,000 people are diagnosed with multiple myeloma each year and 80,000 patient deaths are reported on an annual basis.2

About KYPROLIS (carfilzomib)
Proteasomes play an important role in cell function and growth by breaking down proteins that are damaged or no longer needed.3 KYPROLIS has been shown to block proteasomes, leading to an excessive build-up of proteins within cells.4 In some cells, KYPROLIS can cause cell death, especially in myeloma cells because they are more likely to contain a higher amount of abnormal proteins.3,4

Since its first approval in 2012, approximately 80,000 patients worldwide have received KYPROLIS. KYPROLIS is approved in the U.S. for the following:

In combination with dexamethasone or with lenalidomide plus dexamethasone for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one to three lines of therapy.
As a single agent for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received one or more lines of therapy.
KYPROLIS is also approved in Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macao, Mexico, Thailand, Colombia, South Korea, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Switzerland, Russia, Brazil, India, Oman and additional U.S. regulatory applications for KYPROLIS are underway and have been submitted to health authorities worldwide.

Important U.S. KYPROLIS (carfilzomib) Safety Information

Cardiac Toxicities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infusion reactions, including life‐threatening reactions, have occurred. Symptoms include fever, chills, arthralgia, myalgia, facial flushing, facial edema, vomiting, weakness, shortness of breath, hypotension, syncope, chest tightness, or angina. These reactions can occur immediately following or up to 24 hours after administration. Premedicate with dexamethasone to reduce the incidence and severity of infusion reactions. Inform patients of the risk and of symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
Hemorrhage

Fatal or serious cases of hemorrhage have been reported. Hemorrhagic events have included gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and intracranial hemorrhage and epistaxis. Promptly evaluate signs and symptoms of blood loss. Reduce or withhold dose as appropriate.
Thrombocytopenia

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

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

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

Cases of PRES have occurred in patients receiving KYPROLIS. If PRES is suspected, discontinue and evaluate with appropriate imaging. The safety of reinitiating KYPROLIS is not known.
Increased Fatal and Serious Toxicities in Combination with Melphalan and Prednisone in Newly Diagnosed Transplant-ineligible Patients

In a clinical trial of transplant-ineligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma comparing KYPROLIS, melphalan, and prednisone (KMP) vs bortezomib, melphalan, and prednisone (VMP), a higher incidence of serious and fatal adverse events was observed in patients in the KMP arm. KMP is not indicated for transplant-ineligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.
Embryo-fetal Toxicity

KYPROLIS can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.
Females of reproductive potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant while being treated with KYPROLIS and for 6 months following the final dose. Males of reproductive potential should be advised to avoid fathering a child while being treated with KYPROLIS and for 3 months following the final dose. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if pregnancy occurs while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.
ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common adverse reactions in the combination therapy trials: anemia, neutropenia, diarrhea, dyspnea, fatigue, thrombocytopenia, pyrexia, insomnia, muscle spasm, cough, upper respiratory tract infection, hypokalemia.
The most common adverse reactions in monotherapy trials: anemia, fatigue, thrombocytopenia, nausea, pyrexia, dyspnea, diarrhea, headache, cough, edema peripheral.
Please see full Prescribing Information at www.kyprolis.com.

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

Conatus Pharmaceuticals Reports Third Quarter 2018 Financial Results and Program Updates

On November 1, 2018 Conatus Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq:CNAT), a biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of novel medicines to treat liver disease, reported financial results for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2018, and provided updates on its clinical development programs (Press release, Conatus Pharmaceuticals, NOV 1, 2018, View Source [SID1234530507]).

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Program Updates
The company is conducting three Phase 2b clinical trials in collaboration with Novartis – the EmricasaN, a Caspase inhibitOR, for Evaluation (ENCORE) trials, designed to evaluate emricasan, a first-in-class pan-caspase inhibitor, in patients with fibrosis or cirrhosis caused by nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

The ENCORE-PH (for Portal Hypertension) clinical trial, initiated in the fourth quarter of 2016, has enrolled approximately 240 patients with compensated or early decompensated NASH cirrhosis and severe portal hypertension. The primary endpoint is the mean change in hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) for each of three treatment groups compared with placebo at week 24. ENCORE-PH remains on track with prior guidance, with top-line results expected in the current quarter followed by an integrated 24-week treatment extension period for clinical outcomes.

The ENCORE-NF (for NASH Fibrosis) clinical trial, initiated in the first quarter of 2016, has enrolled approximately 330 patients with NASH fibrosis. The primary endpoint is a one point or greater improvement in NASH Clinical Research Network (CRN) fibrosis score compared with placebo at week 72, with no worsening of steatohepatitis. ENCORE-NF enrolled patients with baseline NASH CRN fibrosis scores of F1 (up to 20% of enrolled patients), F2, and F3. The primary endpoint will be evaluated and can be achieved in either of two prospectively defined patient populations – the F1/F2/F3 population or the F2/F3 population. Either of these populations may be used in a future Phase 3 trial. The company believes that the ENCORE-NF analysis plan as described has the potential to facilitate discussions with regulatory authorities regarding its use as a study to support regulatory approval. Top-line results from ENCORE-NF are expected in the first half of 2019.

The ENCORE-LF (for Liver Function) clinical trial, initiated in the second quarter of 2017, is expected to enroll approximately 210 patients with decompensated NASH cirrhosis. The primary endpoint is event-free survival, with an event-driven stopping point. All subjects will be treated for a minimum of 48 weeks. Guidance for the ENCORE-LF clinical trial has been updated, with top-line results previously expected in the second half of 2019 now expected in mid-2019.
During the third quarter, the company announced the publication of results from preclinical studies of emricasan, demonstrating improvements in portal hypertension and survival in mouse models of secondary biliary cirrhosis. In October, the company announced accepted abstracts for two oral presentations and a poster at The Liver Meeting, the annual meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) in San FranciscoNovember 9-13, 2018. In addition, the company will be meeting with institutional investors at the Stifel 2018 Healthcare Conference in New York on Tuesday, November 13, 2018.

Financial Results
The net loss for the third quarter of 2018 was $4.6 million compared with $4.0 million for the third quarter of 2017. The net loss for the first nine months of 2018 was $14.1 million compared with $13.0 million for the first nine months of 2017.

All revenues were related to the company’s collaboration with Novartis. Total revenues were $7.7 million for the third quarter of 2018 compared with $9.6 million for the third quarter of 2017. Total revenues were $26.2 million for the first nine months of 2018 compared with $26.6 million for the first nine months of 2017. The decreases in revenues for both periods were primarily due to lower emricasan-related research and development expenses resulting in corresponding lower revenues from Novartis, partially offset by the effects of adopting the ASC 606 revenue recognition standard.

Research and development expenses were $9.7 million for the third quarter of 2018 compared with $11.2 million for the third quarter of 2017. The decrease in research and development expenses was primarily due to lower spending related to the ENCORE-NF and ENCORE-PH clinical trials and manufacturing activities, partially offset by higher spending related to the ENCORE-LF clinical trial. Research and development expenses were $32.5 million for the first nine months of 2018 compared with $32.3 million for the first nine months of 2017. The increase in research and development expenses was primarily due to higher spending related to the ENCORE-LF and ENCORE-PH clinical trials and new product candidate development, partially offset by lower spending related to the ENCORE-NF clinical trial and manufacturing activities.

General and administrative expenses were $2.7 million for the third quarter of 2018 compared with $2.4 million for the third quarter of 2017. General and administrative expenses were $8.0 million for the first nine months of 2018 compared with $7.4 million for the first nine months of 2017. The increases in general and administrative expenses for both periods were primarily due to higher personnel costs.

Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities were $49.6 million at September 30, 2018, compared with $74.9 million at December 31, 2017, and a projected year-end 2018 balance of between $35 million and $40 million. The company believes that current financial resources, together with the anticipated reimbursements for 50% of the costs for the ongoing clinical trials, without including any potential milestone payments under the Novartis collaboration, are sufficient to maintain operations through the end of 2019, as well as to fund initial pipeline expansion activities.

Conference Call and Audio Webcast
Conatus will host a conference call and audio webcast at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time today to discuss the financial results and provide a corporate update. To access the conference call, please dial 877-312-5857 (domestic) or 970-315-0455 (international) at least five minutes prior to the start time and refer to conference ID 5773926. A live and archived audio webcast of the call will also be available in the Investors section of the Conatus website at www.conatuspharma.com.