Merck, Pfizer-Backed Therapy Improves Outcomes For Cisplatin-Ineligible Bladder Cancer Patients

On Tuesday, Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE:MRK) released topline results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-905 trial (also known as EV-303) in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who are ineligible for cisplatin-based chemotherapy.

In this study, Keytruda (pembrolizumab) plus Padcev (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv), given before and after surgery (radical cystectomy), demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in event-free survival (EFS), the study’s primary endpoint, as well as overall survival (OS) and pathologic complete response (pCR) rate, key secondary endpoints, compared to surgery (radical cystectomy) alone.

The trial, evaluating Merck’s Keytruda plus Padcev, was conducted in collaboration with Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) (previously Seagen) and Astellas Pharma Inc. (OTC:ALPMF) (OTC:ALPMY).

Also Read: Cautious Optimism As Merck Leans On Oncology Amid Gardasil Vaccine Concerns

The trial continues to evaluate the secondary EFS, OS, and pCR rate endpoints for neoadjuvant ...