Latest news with #BTD
Business Wire
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Wire
IMFINZI® (durvalumab) granted Priority Review and Breakthrough Therapy Designation in the US for patients with resectable early-stage gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers
WILMINGTON, Del.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AstraZeneca's supplemental Biologics License Application (sBLA) for IMFINZI ® (durvalumab) has been accepted and granted Priority Review in the US for the treatment of patients with resectable, early-stage and locally advanced (Stages II, III, IVA) gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancers. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) grants Priority Review to applications for medicines that, if approved, would offer significant improvements over available options by demonstrating safety or efficacy improvements, preventing serious conditions or enhancing patient compliance. 1 The Prescription Drug User Fee Act date, the FDA action date for their regulatory decision, is anticipated during the fourth quarter of 2025. IMFINZI was also recently granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) by the FDA in this setting. BTD accelerates the development and regulatory review of potential new medicines intended to treat a serious condition and address a significant unmet medical need. 2 Gastric (stomach) cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fifth-highest leading cause of cancer mortality. 3 In 2024, there were approximately 6,500 drug-treated patients in the US with early-stage and locally advanced gastric or GEJ cancer. 4 Susan Galbraith, Executive Vice President, Oncology Haematology R&D, AstraZeneca, said: 'This Priority Review reinforces the potential for a perioperative approach with IMFINZI to transform care for patients with early gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers, who frequently face disease recurrence or progression even after curative-intent surgery and perioperative chemotherapy. This novel treatment is the only immunotherapy-based regimen to show a statistically significant reduction in the risk of progression, recurrence or death in this setting, and if approved, is poised to change the clinical paradigm." The sBLA is based on data from the MATTERHORN Phase III trial which was presented during the Plenary Session at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting and simultaneously published in The New England Journal of Medicine. In the trial, patients were treated with neoadjuvant IMFINZI in combination with chemotherapy before surgery, followed by adjuvant IMFINZI in combination with chemotherapy, then IMFINZI monotherapy. In a planned interim analysis, patients treated with the IMFINZI-based perioperative regimen showed a 29% reduction in the risk of disease progression, recurrence or death versus chemotherapy alone (based on an event-free survival [EFS] hazard ratio [HR] of 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58-0.86; P <0.001). Estimated median EFS was not yet reached for the IMFINZI arm versus 32.8 months for the comparator arm. An estimated 78.2% of patients treated with the IMFINZI-based perioperative regimen were event-free at one year, compared to 74.0% in the comparator arm; the estimated 24-month EFS rate was 67.4% versus 58.5%, respectively, signaling a greater magnitude of benefit over time for the IMFINZI-based regimen. For the key secondary endpoint of overall survival (OS), a strong trend was observed in favor of the IMFINZI-based perioperative regimen (HR=0.78; 95% CI 0.62-0.97; P= 0.025). The trial will continue to follow OS, which will be formally assessed at the final analysis. The safety profile for IMFINZI and FLOT (fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and docetaxel) chemotherapy was consistent with the known profiles of each medicine, and the percentage of patients that completed surgery was similar compared to chemotherapy alone. Grade 3 or higher adverse events due to any cause were similar between the two arms. Regulatory applications are currently under review in the EU, Japan and several other countries based on the MATTERHORN results. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION There are no contraindications for IMFINZI ® (durvalumab) or IMJUDO ® (tremelimumab-actl). Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed under Warnings and Precautions may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue. Immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur at any time after starting treatment or after discontinuation. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate clinical chemistries including liver enzymes, creatinine, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level, and thyroid function at baseline and before each dose. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate. Withhold or permanently discontinue IMFINZI and IMJUDO depending on severity. See USPI Dosing and Administration for specific details. In general, if IMFINZI and IMJUDO requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 mg to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy. Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis, which may be fatal. The incidence of pneumonitis is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation. IMFINZI as a Single Agent In patients who did not receive recent prior radiation, the incidence of immune-mediated pneumonitis was 2.4% (34/1414), including fatal (<0.1%), and Grade 3-4 (0.4%) adverse reactions. In patients who received recent prior radiation, the incidence of pneumonitis (including radiation pneumonitis) in patients with unresectable Stage III NSCLC following definitive chemoradiation within 42 days prior to initiation of IMFINZI in PACIFIC was 18.3% (87/475) in patients receiving IMFINZI and 12.8% (30/234) in patients receiving placebo. Of the patients who received IMFINZI (475), 1.1% were fatal and 2.7% were Grade 3 adverse reactions. The incidence of pneumonitis (including radiation pneumonitis) in patients with LS-SCLC following chemoradiation within 42 days prior to initiation of IMFINZI in ADRIATIC was 14% (37/262) in patients receiving IMFINZI and 6% (16/265) in patients receiving placebo. Of the patients who received IMFINZI (262), 0.4% had a fatal adverse reaction and 2.7% had Grade 3 adverse reactions. The frequency and severity of immune-mediated pneumonitis in patients who did not receive definitive chemoradiation prior to IMFINZI were similar in patients who received IMFINZI as a single agent or with ES-SCLC or BTC when given in combination with chemotherapy. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Immune‑mediated pneumonitis occurred in 1.3% (5/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including fatal (0.3%) and Grade 3 (0.2%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.5% (21/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including fatal (0.5%), and Grade 3 (1%) adverse reactions. Immune-Mediated Colitis IMFINZI with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may be fatal. IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated colitis that is frequently associated with diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies. IMFINZI as a Single Agent Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 2% (37/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 4 (<0.1%) and Grade 3 (0.4%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Immune‑mediated colitis or diarrhea occurred in 6% (23/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 3 (3.6%) adverse reactions. Intestinal perforation has been observed in other studies of IMFINZI and IMJUDO. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 6.5% (39/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy including fatal (0.2%) and Grade 3 (2.5%) adverse reactions. Intestinal perforation and large intestine perforation were reported in 0.1% of patients. Immune-Mediated Hepatitis IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated hepatitis, which may be fatal. IMFINZI as a Single Agent Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 2.8% (52/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including fatal (0.2%), Grade 4 (0.3%) and Grade 3 (1.4%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Immune‑mediated hepatitis occurred in 7.5% (29/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including fatal (0.8%), Grade 4 (0.3%) and Grade 3 (4.1%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 3.9% (23/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including fatal (0.3%), Grade 4 (0.5%), and Grade 3 (2%) adverse reactions. Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies Adrenal Insufficiency: IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. For Grade 2 or higher adrenal insufficiency, initiate symptomatic treatment, including hormone replacement as clinically indicated. IMFINZI as a Single Agent Immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency occurred in 0.5% (9/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency occurred in 1.5% (6/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency occurred in 2.2% (13/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.8%) adverse reactions. Hypophysitis: IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated hypophysitis. Hypophysitis can present with acute symptoms associated with mass effect such as headache, photophobia, or visual field cuts. Hypophysitis can cause hypopituitarism. Initiate symptomatic treatment including hormone replacement as clinically indicated. IMFINZI as a Single Agent Grade 3 hypophysitis/hypopituitarism occurred in <0.1% (1/1889) of patients who received IMFINZI. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Immune-mediated hypophysitis/hypopituitarism occurred in 1% (4/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated hypophysitis occurred in 1.3% (8/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.5%) adverse reactions. Thyroid Disorders (Thyroiditis, Hyperthyroidism, and Hypothyroidism): IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated thyroid disorders. Thyroiditis can present with or without endocrinopathy. Hypothyroidism can follow hyperthyroidism. Initiate hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism or institute medical management of hyperthyroidism as clinically indicated. IMFINZI as a Single Agent Immune-mediated thyroiditis occurred in 0.5% (9/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) adverse reactions. Immune-mediated hyperthyroidism occurred in 2.1% (39/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI. Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 8.3% (156/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Immune-mediated thyroiditis occurred in 1.5% (6/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO. Immune-mediated hyperthyroidism occurred in 4.6% (18/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions. Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 11% (42/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated thyroiditis occurred in 1.2% (7/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy. Immune-mediated hyperthyroidism occurred in 5% (30/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.2%) adverse reactions. Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 8.6% (51/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.5%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with Carboplatin and Paclitaxel Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 14% (34/235) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, which can present with diabetic ketoacidosis: Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes. Initiate treatment with insulin as clinically indicated. IMFINZI as a Single Agent Grade 3 immune-mediated Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurred in <0.1% (1/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Two patients (0.5%, 2/388) had events of hyperglycemia requiring insulin therapy that had not resolved at last follow-up. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurred in 0.5% (3/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions. Immune-Mediated Nephritis with Renal Dysfunction IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated nephritis. IMFINZI as a Single Agent Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 0.5% (10/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 1% (4/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 3 (0.5%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 0.7% (4/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.2%) adverse reactions. Immune-Mediated Dermatology Reactions IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated rash or dermatitis. Exfoliative dermatitis, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), has occurred with PD-1/L-1 and CTLA-4 blocking antibodies. Topical emollients and/or topical corticosteroids may be adequate to treat mild to moderate non-exfoliative rashes. IMFINZI as a Single Agent Immune-mediated rash or dermatitis occurred in 1.8% (34/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (0.4%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO Immune-mediated rash or dermatitis occurred in 4.9% (19/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 4 (0.3%) and Grade 3 (1.5%) adverse reactions. IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy Immune-mediated rash or dermatitis occurred in 7.2% (43/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions. Immune-Mediated Pancreatitis IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated pancreatitis. Immune-mediated pancreatitis occurred in 2.3% (9/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 4 (0.3%) and Grade 3 (1.5%) adverse reactions. Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions The following clinically significant, immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred at an incidence of less than 1% each in patients who received IMFINZI and IMJUDO or were reported with the use of other immune-checkpoint inhibitors. Cardiac/vascular: Myocarditis, pericarditis, vasculitis. Nervous system: Meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis and demyelination, myasthenic syndrome/myasthenia gravis (including exacerbation), Guillain-Barré syndrome, nerve paresis, autoimmune neuropathy. Ocular: Uveitis, iritis, and other ocular inflammatory toxicities can occur. Some cases can be associated with retinal detachment. Various grades of visual impairment to include blindness can occur. If uveitis occurs in combination with other immune-mediated adverse reactions, consider a Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-like syndrome, as this may require treatment with systemic steroids to reduce the risk of permanent vision loss. Gastrointestinal: Pancreatitis including increases in serum amylase and lipase levels, gastritis, duodenitis. Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Myositis/polymyositis, rhabdomyolysis and associated sequelae including renal failure, arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatic. Endocrine: Hypoparathyroidism. Other (hematologic/immune): Hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (Kikuchi lymphadenitis), sarcoidosis, immune thrombocytopenia, solid organ transplant rejection, other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection. Infusion-Related Reactions IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions. Monitor for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions. Interrupt, slow the rate of, or permanently discontinue IMFINZI and IMJUDO based on the severity. See USPI Dosing and Administration for specific details. For Grade 1 or 2 infusion-related reactions, consider using pre-medications with subsequent doses. Complications of Allogeneic HSCT after IMFINZI Fatal and other serious complications can occur in patients who receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) before or after being treated with a PD-1/L-1 blocking antibody. Transplant-related complications include hyperacute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), acute GVHD, chronic GVHD, hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) after reduced intensity conditioning, and steroid-requiring febrile syndrome (without an identified infectious cause). These complications may occur despite intervening therapy between PD-1/L-1 blockade and allogeneic HSCT. Follow patients closely for evidence of transplant-related complications and intervene promptly. Consider the benefit versus risks of treatment with a PD-1/L-1 blocking antibody prior to or after an allogeneic HSCT. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Based on their mechanism of action and data from animal studies, IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. In females of reproductive potential, verify pregnancy status prior to initiating IMFINZI and IMJUDO and advise them to use effective contraception during treatment with IMFINZI and IMJUDO and for 3 months after the last dose of IMFINZI and IMJUDO. Lactation There is no information regarding the presence of IMFINZI and IMJUDO in human milk; however, because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants from IMFINZI and IMJUDO, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose. Adverse Reactions Unresectable Stage III NSCLC In patients with Stage III NSCLC in the PACIFIC study receiving IMFINZI (n=475), the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were cough (40%), fatigue (34%), pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis (34%), upper respiratory tract infections (26%), dyspnea (25%), and rash (23%). The most common Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions (≥3%) were pneumonia (7%) and pneumonitis/radiation pneumonitis (3.4%). In patients with Stage III NSCLC in the PACIFIC study receiving IMFINZI (n=475), discontinuation due to adverse reactions occurred in 15% of patients in the IMFINZI arm. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 29% of patients receiving IMFINZI. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (≥2%) were pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis (7%) and pneumonia (6%). Fatal pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis and fatal pneumonia occurred in <2% of patients and were similar across arms. Resectable NSCLC In patients with resectable NSCLC in the AEGEAN study, the most common adverse reactions (occurring in ≥20% of patients) were anemia, nausea, constipation, fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, and rash. In patients with resectable NSCLC in the neoadjuvant phase of the AEGEAN study receiving IMFINZI in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy (n=401), permanent discontinuation of IMFINZI due to an adverse reaction occurred in 6.7% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 21% of patients. The most frequent (≥1%) serious adverse reactions were pneumonia (2.7%), anemia (1.5%), myelosuppression (1.5%), vomiting (1.2%), neutropenia (1%), and acute kidney injury (1%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 2% of patients, including death due to COVID-19 pneumonia (0.5%), sepsis (0.5%), myocarditis (0.2%), decreased appetite (0.2%), hemoptysis (0.2%), and death not otherwise specified (0.2%). Of the 401 IMFINZI treated patients who received neoadjuvant treatment and 398 placebo-treated patients who received neoadjuvant treatment, 1.7% (n=7) and 1% (n=4), respectively, did not receive surgery due to adverse reactions. In patients with resectable NSCLC in the adjuvant phase of the AEGEAN study receiving IMFINZI as a single agent (n=265), permanent discontinuation of IMFINZI due to an adverse reaction occurred in 8% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 13% of patients. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in >1% of patients were pneumonia (1.9%), pneumonitis (1.1%), and COVID-19 (1.1%). Four fatal adverse reactions occurred during the adjuvant phase of the study, including COVID-19 pneumonia, pneumonia aspiration, interstitial lung disease and aortic aneurysm. Metastatic NSCLC In patients with mNSCLC in the POSEIDON study receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO plus platinum-based chemotherapy (n=330), the most common adverse reactions (occurring in ≥20% of patients) were nausea (42%), fatigue (36%), musculoskeletal pain (29%), decreased appetite (28%), rash (27%), and diarrhea (22%). In patients with mNSCLC in the POSEIDON study receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy (n=330), permanent discontinuation of IMFINZI or IMJUDO due to an adverse reaction occurred in 17% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 44% of patients, with the most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients being pneumonia (11%), anemia (5%), diarrhea (2.4%), thrombocytopenia (2.4%), pyrexia (2.4%), and febrile neutropenia (2.1%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in a total of 4.2% of patients. Limited-stage Small Cell Lung Cancer In patients with limited-stage SCLC in the ADRIATIC study receiving IMFINZI (n=262), the most common adverse reactions occurring in ≥20% of patients receiving IMFINZI were pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis (38%), and fatigue (21%). The most common Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions (≥3%) were pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis and pneumonia. In patients with limited-stage SCLC in the ADRIATIC study receiving IMFINZI (n=262), IMFINZI was permanently discontinued due to adverse reactions in 16% of the patients receiving IMFINZI. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 30% of patients receiving IMFINZI. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in ≥1% of patients receiving IMFINZI were pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis (12%), and pneumonia (5%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 2.7% of patients who received IMFINZI including pneumonia (1.5%), cardiac failure, encephalopathy and pneumonitis (0.4% each). Extensive-stage Small Cell Lung Cancer In patients with extensive-stage SCLC in the CASPIAN study receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy (n=265), the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were nausea (34%), fatigue/asthenia (32%), and alopecia (31%). The most common Grade 3 or 4 adverse reaction (≥3%) was fatigue/asthenia (3.4%). In patients with extensive-stage SCLC in the CASPIAN study receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy (n=265), IMFINZI was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 7% of the patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 31% of patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 1% of patients were febrile neutropenia (4.5%), pneumonia (2.3%), anemia (1.9%), pancytopenia (1.5%), pneumonitis (1.1%), and COPD (1.1%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 4.9% of patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. Locally Advanced or Metastatic Biliary Tract Cancers In patients with locally advanced or metastatic BTC in the TOPAZ-1 study receiving IMFINZI (n=338), the most common adverse reactions (occurring in ≥20% of patients) were fatigue (42%), nausea (40%), constipation (32%), decreased appetite (26%), abdominal pain (24%), rash (23%), and pyrexia (20%). In patients with locally advanced or metastatic BTC in the TOPAZ-1 study receiving IMFINZI (n=338), discontinuation due to adverse reactions occurred in 6% of the patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 47% of patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients were cholangitis (7%), pyrexia (3.8%), anemia (3.6%), sepsis (3.3%) and acute kidney injury (2.4%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 3.6% of patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. These include ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke (4 patients), sepsis (2 patients), and upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (2 patients). Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma In patients with unresectable HCC in the HIMALAYA study receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO (n=388), the most common adverse reactions (occurring in ≥20% of patients) were rash (32%), diarrhea (27%), fatigue (26%), pruritus (23%), musculoskeletal pain (22%), and abdominal pain (20%). In patients with unresectable HCC in the HIMALAYA study receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO (n=388), serious adverse reactions occurred in 41% of patients. Serious adverse reactions in >1% of patients included hemorrhage (6%), diarrhea (4%), sepsis (2.1%), pneumonia (2.1%), rash (1.5%), vomiting (1.3%), acute kidney injury (1.3%), and anemia (1.3%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 8% of patients who received IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including death (1%), hemorrhage intracranial (0.5%), cardiac arrest (0.5%), pneumonitis (0.5%), hepatic failure (0.5%), and immune-mediated hepatitis (0.5%). Permanent discontinuation of treatment regimen due to an adverse reaction occurred in 14% of patients. Primary advanced or Recurrent dMMR Endometrial Cancer In patients with advanced or recurrent dMMR endometrial cancer in the DUO-E study receiving IMFINZI in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel followed by IMFINZI as a single-agent (n=44), the most common adverse reactions, including laboratory abnormalities (occurring in >20% of patients) were peripheral neuropathy (61%), musculoskeletal pain (59%), nausea (59%), alopecia (52%), fatigue (41%), abdominal pain (39%), constipation (39%), rash (39%), decreased magnesium (36%), increased ALT (32%), increased AST (30%), diarrhea (27%), vomiting (27%), cough (27%), decreased potassium (25%), dyspnea (25%), headache (23%), increased alkaline phosphatase (20%), and decreased appetite (18%). The most common Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions (≥3%) were constipation (4.5%) and fatigue (4.5%). In patients with advanced or recurrent dMMR endometrial cancer in the DUO-E study receiving IMFINZI in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel followed by IMFINZI as a single-agent (n=44), permanent discontinuation of IMFINZI due to adverse reactions occurred in 11% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 30% of patients who received IMFINZI with carboplatin and paclitaxel; the most common serious adverse reactions (≥4%) were constipation (4.5%) and rash (4.5%). Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC) In patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), the most common adverse reactions, including laboratory abnormalities, in the overall study (occurring in ≥20% of patients) were decreased hemoglobin, decreased neutrophils, increased blood creatinine, decreased sodium, nausea, increased ALT, decreased calcium, decreased platelets, fatigue, increased potassium, decreased lymphocytes, increased AST, constipation, decreased magnesium, decreased appetite, increased alkaline phosphate, rash, pyrexia, diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In patients with MIBC in the neoadjuvant phase of the NIAGARA study receiving IMFINZI in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin (n=530), permanent discontinuation of IMFINZI due to an adverse reaction occurred in 9% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 24% of patients; the most frequent (≥1%) serious adverse reactions were pulmonary embolism (1.9%), febrile neutropenia (1.5%), acute kidney injury (1.3%), thrombocytopenia (1.3%), urinary tract infection (1.3%), and pneumonia (1.3%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 1.1% of patients including sepsis, myocardial infarction, and pulmonary embolism (0.2% each). One fatal adverse reaction of pneumonia was reported in 1 (0.2%) patient in the post-surgery phase before adjuvant treatment started. Of the 530 patients in the IMFINZI treatment arm and 526 patients in the chemotherapy treatment arm who received neoadjuvant treatment, 1 (0.2%) patient in each treatment arm did not receive surgery due to adverse reactions. The adverse reaction that led to cancellation of surgery in the IMFINZI treatment arm was interstitial lung disease. In patients with MIBC in the adjuvant phase of the NIAGARA study receiving IMFINZI as a single agent (n=383), permanent discontinuation of adjuvant IMFINZI due to an adverse reaction occurred in 5% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 26% of patients. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (occurring in ≥1% of patients) were urinary tract infection (7%), acute kidney injury (3.7%), hydronephrosis (2.1%), pyelonephritis (2.1%), urosepsis (1.8%) and sepsis (1.6%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 1.8% of patients, including COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome, cardiopulmonary failure, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and chronic hepatic failure (0.3% each). The safety and effectiveness of IMFINZI and IMJUDO have not been established in pediatric patients. Indications: IMFINZI, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose disease has not progressed following concurrent platinum-based chemotherapy and radiation therapy (cCRT). IMFINZI in combination with platinum-containing chemotherapy as neoadjuvant treatment, followed by IMFINZI continued as a single agent as adjuvant treatment after surgery, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with resectable (tumors ≥4 cm and/or node positive) NSCLC and no known epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations or anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangements. IMFINZI, in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic NSCLC with no sensitizing EGFR mutations or ALK genomic tumor aberrations. IMFINZI, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with limited-stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC) whose disease has not progressed following concurrent platinum-based chemotherapy and radiation therapy (cCRT). IMFINZI, in combination with etoposide and either carboplatin or cisplatin, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). IMFINZI, in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic biliary tract cancer (BTC). IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). IMFINZI in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel followed by IMFINZI as a single agent is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer that is mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) as determined by an FDA-approved test. IMFINZI in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin as neoadjuvant treatment, followed by single-agent IMFINZI as adjuvant treatment following radical cystectomy, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Please see additional Important Safety Information throughout and Full Prescribing Information including Medication Guide for IMFINZI and IMJUDO. You may report side effects related to AstraZeneca products. Notes Gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers Gastric (stomach) cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fifth-highest leading cause of cancer mortality. 3 Nearly one million new patients were diagnosed with gastric cancer in 2022, with approximately 660,000 deaths reported globally. 3 In many regions, its incidence has been increasing in patients younger than 50 years old, along with other gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies. 5 In 2024, there were approximately 43,000 drug-treated patients in the US, European Union (EU), and Japan with early-stage and locally advanced gastric or GEJ cancer. 4 Approximately 62,000 patients in these regions are expected to be newly diagnosed in this setting by 2030. 6 GEJ cancer is a type of gastric cancer that arises from and spans the area where the esophagus connects to the stomach. 7 Disease recurrence is common in patients with resectable gastric cancer despite undergoing surgery with curative intent and treatment with neoadjuvant/adjuvant chemotherapy. Approximately one in four patients with gastric cancer who undergo surgery develop recurrent disease within one year, and one in four patients do not survive beyond two years, reflecting a high unmet medical need. 8-9 Additionally, the five-year survival rate remains poor, with less than half of patients alive at five years. 10 MATTERHORN MATTERHORN is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-center, global Phase III trial evaluating IMFINZI as perioperative treatment for patients with resectable Stage II-IVA gastric and GEJ cancers. Perioperative therapy includes treatment before and after surgery, also known as neoadjuvant/adjuvant therapy. In the trial, 948 patients were randomized to receive a 1500mg fixed dose of IMFINZI plus FLOT chemotherapy or placebo plus FLOT chemotherapy every four weeks for two cycles prior to surgery. This was followed by IMFINZI or placebo every four weeks for up to 12 cycles after surgery (including two cycles of IMFINZI or placebo plus FLOT chemotherapy and 10 additional cycles of IMFINZI or placebo monotherapy). In the MATTERHORN trial, the primary endpoint is EFS, defined as time from randomization until the date of one of the following events (whichever occurred first): RECIST (version 1.1, per blinded independent central review assessment) progression that precludes surgery or requires non-protocol therapy during the neoadjuvant period; RECIST progression/recurrence during the adjuvant period; non-RECIST progression that precludes surgery or requires non-protocol therapy during the neoadjuvant period or discovered during surgery; progression/recurrence confirmed by biopsy post-surgery; or death due to any cause. Key secondary endpoints include pathologic complete response rate, defined as the proportion of patients who have no detectable cancer cells in resected tumor tissue following neoadjuvant therapy, and OS. The trial enrolled participants in 176 centers in 20 countries, including in the US, Canada, Europe, South America and Asia. IMFINZI IMFINZI ® (durvalumab) is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to the PD-L1 protein and blocks the interaction of PD-L1 with the PD-1 and CD80 proteins, countering the tumor's immune-evading tactics and releasing the inhibition of immune responses. In GI cancer, IMFINZI is approved in combination with chemotherapy in locally advanced or metastatic biliary tract cancer (BTC) and in combination with IMJUDO ® (tremelimumab-actl) in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). IMFINZI is also approved as a monotherapy in unresectable HCC in Japan and the EU. In addition to its indications in GI cancers, IMFINZI is the global standard of care based on OS in the curative-intent setting of unresectable, Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients whose disease has not progressed after chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Additionally, IMFINZI is approved as a perioperative treatment in combination with neoadjuvant chemotherapy in resectable NSCLC, and in combination with a short course of IMJUDO and chemotherapy for the treatment of metastatic NSCLC. IMFINZI is also approved for limited-stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC) in patients whose disease has not progressed following concurrent platinum-based CRT; and in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of extensive-stage SCLC. Perioperative IMFINZI in combination with neoadjuvant chemotherapy is approved in the US and other countries for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer based on results from the NIAGARA Phase III trial. Additionally, in May 2025, IMFINZI plus standard-of-care Bacillus Calmette-Guérin induction and maintenance therapy met the primary endpoint of disease-free survival for patients with high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer in the POTOMAC Phase III trial. IMFINZI in combination with chemotherapy followed by IMFINZI monotherapy is approved as a 1st-line treatment for primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer (mismatch repair deficient disease only in the US and EU). IMFINZI in combination with chemotherapy followed by olaparib and IMFINZI is approved for patients with mismatch repair proficient advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer in the EU and Japan. Since the first approval in May 2017, more than 414,000 patients have been treated with IMFINZI. As part of a broad development program, IMFINZI is being tested as a single treatment and in combinations with other anti-cancer treatments for patients with NSCLC, bladder cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer and several GI cancers. AstraZeneca in GI cancers AstraZeneca has a broad development program for the treatment of GI cancers across several medicines and a variety of tumor types and stages of disease. In 2022, GI cancers collectively represented approximately 5 million new cancer cases leading to approximately 3.3 million deaths. 11 Within this program, the Company is committed to improving outcomes in gastric, liver, biliary tract, esophageal, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. In addition to its indications in BTC and HCC, IMFINZI is being assessed in combinations, including with IMJUDO, in liver, esophageal and gastric cancers in an extensive development program spanning early to late-stage disease across settings. Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki, a HER2-directed antibody drug conjugate (ADC), is approved in the US and several other countries for HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer. Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki is jointly developed and commercialized by AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo. Olaparib, a first-in-class PARP inhibitor, is approved in the US and several other countries for the treatment of BRCA -mutated metastatic pancreatic cancer. Olaparib is developed and commercialized in collaboration with Merck & Co., Inc (MSD outside the US and Canada). The Company is also assessing rilvegostomig (AZD2936), a PD-1/TIGIT bispecific antibody, in combination with chemotherapy as an adjuvant therapy in BTC, in combination with bevacizumab with or without IMJUDO as a 1st-line treatment in patients with advanced HCC, and as a 1st-line treatment in patients with HER2-negative, locally advanced unresectable or metastatic gastric and GEJ cancers. Rilvegostomig is also being evaluated in combination with fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki in previously untreated, HER2-expressing, locally advanced or metastatic BTC. AstraZeneca is advancing multiple modalities that provide complementary mechanisms for targeting Claudin 18.2, a promising therapeutic target in gastric cancer. These include sonesitatug vedotin, a potential first-in-class ADC licensed from KYM Biosciences Inc., currently in Phase III development; AZD5863, a novel Claudin 18.2/CD3 T-cell engager bispecific antibody licensed from Harbor Biomed in Phase I development; and AZD6422, an armored autologous chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR T) therapy, currently being evaluated in an investigator-initiated trial (IIT) in collaboration with AbelZeta in China. In early development, AstraZeneca is developing two Glypican 3 (GPC3) armored CAR Ts in HCC. AZD5851, currently in Phase I development, is being developed globally, and C-CAR031 / AZD7003 is being co-developed with AbelZeta in China where it is under evaluation in an IIT. AstraZeneca in immuno-oncology (IO) AstraZeneca is a pioneer in introducing the concept of immunotherapy into dedicated clinical areas of high unmet medical need. The Company has a comprehensive and diverse IO portfolio and pipeline anchored in immunotherapies designed to overcome evasion of the anti-tumor immune response and stimulate the body's immune system to attack tumors. AstraZeneca strives to redefine cancer care and help transform outcomes for patients with IMFINZI as a monotherapy and in combination with IMJUDO as well as other novel immunotherapies and modalities. The Company is also investigating next-generation immunotherapies like bispecific antibodies and therapeutics that harness different aspects of immunity to target cancer, including cell therapy and T-cell engagers. AstraZeneca is pursuing an innovative clinical strategy to bring IO-based therapies that deliver long-term survival to new settings across a wide range of cancer types. The Company is focused on exploring novel combination approaches to help prevent treatment resistance and drive longer immune responses. With an extensive clinical program, the Company also champions the use of IO treatment in earlier disease stages, where there is the greatest potential for cure. AstraZeneca in oncology AstraZeneca is leading a revolution in oncology with the ambition to provide cures for cancer in every form, following the science to understand cancer and all its complexities to discover, develop and deliver life-changing medicines to patients. The Company's focus is on some of the most challenging cancers. It is through persistent innovation that AstraZeneca has built one of the most diverse portfolios and pipelines in the industry, with the potential to catalyze changes in the practice of medicine and transform the patient experience. AstraZeneca has the vision to redefine cancer care and, one day, eliminate cancer as a cause of death. AstraZeneca AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca's innovative medicines are sold in more than 125 countries and used by millions of patients worldwide. Please visit and follow the Company on social media @AstraZeneca. References FDA. Priority Review. Available at: Accessed July 2025 FDA. Frequently Asked Questions: Breakthrough Therapies. Available at: Accessed July 2025. World Health Organization. International Agency for Research on Cancer. Stomach Fact Sheet. Available at: Accessed July 2025. AstraZeneca PLC. Investor Relations Epidemiology Spreadsheet. Available at: Accessed July 2025. Li Y, et al. Global burden of young-onset gastric cancer: a systematic trend analysis of the global burden of disease study 2019. Gastric Cancer. 2024;27(4):684-700. Kantar Health, validated with SEER stage at diagnosis and Cabasag et al. and Kuzuu et al. 2021. National Cancer Institute. Gastroesophageal junction. Available at: Accessed July 2025. Li Y, et al. Postoperative recurrence of gastric cancer depends on whether the chemotherapy cycle was more than 9 cycles. Medicine. 2022;101(5):e28620. Ilic M, Ilic I. Epidemiology of stomach cancer. World J Gastroenterol. 2022;28(12):1187-1203. Al-Batran SE, et al. Perioperative chemotherapy with fluorouracil plus leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and docetaxel versus fluorouracil or capecitabine plus cisplatin and epirubicin for locally advanced, resectable gastric or gastro-oesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (FLOT4): a randomized, phase 2/3 trial. Lancet. 2019;393(10184):1948-1957. World Health Organization. World Cancer Fact Sheet. Available at Accessed July 2025. US-103594 Last Updated 7/25
RTÉ News
22-06-2025
- Business
- RTÉ News
How secure is your banking app?
Mobile banking is one of the most popular internet activities in Ireland. During the first six months of last year, 87% of internet users used internet banking or mobile banking, according to the Central Statistics Office. This trend tells us that many people now use their phones to manage their accounts and make payments. But fraudulent payments are a growing concern in Europe, especially in the rapidly evolving digital marketplace. Earlier this year, the Central Bank of Ireland published a new Behind the Data (BTD) paper on Irish payment fraud statistics. However, there are no stats to identify how many scams or frauds happen specially through interactions with apps. Head of Financial Crime with Banking and Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) Niamh Davenport warns that app scams usually happen because a phone or device has been hacked. "Everyone thinks they're banking app scams, it's generally your phone that has been compromised rather than the app itself," said Ms Davenport. "Summer last year is probably the first time we really saw app scams come into force and they're still low volume in Ireland from what members are telling us, but they're only going to increase," she said. In March, the BPFI hosted the first Cross-Sector Anti-Fraud Forum which was established as a key action under the Department of Finance's National Payments Strategy. BPFI will chair the Forum for the initial period of two and half years and work with industry partners, the Government and An Garda Siochana to ensure a robust framework for fraud prevention, detection, and disruption. How secure are banking apps? Biometric logins, such as facial recognition, are becoming increasingly common within mobile banking apps to ensure they are secure. Our banking apps are "in general" secure, according to independent expert and Chief Technical Officer at Wayne Morgan. "Most banking apps have to undergo diligent tests and ongoing tests for the security vulnerabilities. So, in general, yes, I would say banking apps are secure," said Mr Morgan. He advises users to adopt a trust nothing and check everything attitude when it comes to keeping your personal information safe. "Cyber security and your approach to security starts the moment you sit in a chair or turn on your device," said Mr Morgan. "It's not good enough to action after the fact, you have to be diligent from the moment you pick up your device," he said. What are the main risks of banking apps as a consumer? They include phishing attacks, malware, fake apps or rogue apps or spoof apps; people reusing credentials in their banking that they would use in multiple other places; and man in the middle attack (MITM). MITM attackers sometimes create their own malicious public wifi networks to lure unsuspecting users and harvest their personal data. The attacker places themselves between a user and the app or website to eavesdrop on the communication. This can be done through a piece of software installed on a phone, tablet or computer and the attackers uses it to steal or manipulate information. This is why it is important not to use the same password for multiple accounts, as it makes it easier for attackers to compile more of your personal information. "People have a habit of using a password that's easy to remember. It could be a family member's name, an anniversary, the name of a pet," said Mr Morgan. "They will reuse that password across the spread of their apps, it could be their Facebook or Instagram, their banking, it could be many, many things, and reusing the password is definitely something we would advise against." Is technology or human error more susceptible to fraudsters? Typically, human error is the main path to a breach. Phishing and smishing are the most common attacks used by fraudsters to socially engineer customers into giving away their credentials. When downloading any apps, consumers should only use the official Apple and Android app stores. BPFI's Niamh Davenport warns that fraudsters are targeting people directly, and consumers need to take extra steps to check the legitimacy of an app. "We just click on things so quickly or we trust information that's put in front of us so easily. Irish people would have questioned everything, and I think we've just become a very trusting nation and just take everything at face value on particular when it comes to social media," she said. In an effort to tackle text scams the Communications Regulator has developed an SMS Sender ID system. From 3 July this year, unregistered SMS Sender IDs will be modified to "Likely Scam" to alert the recipient to be cautious of the content of those text messages. While from 3 October 2025, text messages from unregistered SMS Sender IDs will be blocked. What happens if you download a fake banking app? Fraudsters can trick people into sharing their logins and sensitive financial information with fake banking apps that imitate legitimate mobile banking. However, any fake app that is downloaded inadvertently through unofficial links or phishing websites poses a threat to the security of your information. And the fraudsters can play the long game, as you will have no idea that they have access to your phone or device. By installing an app from an untrusted source, there is the same risk as an email breach. The hackers can install a Trojan piece of software, and somebody will be sitting with full uninterrupted access to the device; and they'll just sit there. "It could be for days, for weeks, months, monitoring the traffic, waiting for the opportunity of you to use your banking app and enter your password," said Mr Morgan. "If you have two factor authentication, they will be sitting there waiting for the access code or token from your two-factor authentication session to go across," he said. "They would then use that token to gain access to your banking app. These things are a long game, they're not necessarily good in the short term, so diligence over time is critical," he explained. If a device is hacked in this way, deleting the fake app is unlikely to solve the problem. The initial piece of Trojan software that was installed is likely to install something else in the background such as a port or access path to a third party to access the device and the user's information. How are the banks in Ireland working to protect banking app customers? The EU is working on a new legislative framework the Payment Services Regulation (PSR) as well as a third Payment Services Directive (PSD). Both aim to modernise payment services, enhance consumer protection, and promote competition in the payments market. Banks in Ireland are not automatically liable for losses due to scams, but it is likely they will investigate the incident and could potentially refund the customer. This will depend on the type of scam or unauthorised payment, if the customer promptly reported the incident and a bank's own policy regarding scam refunds. Banks also have a range of security measures from the app itself being security protected, to one of the bigger ones which is transaction monitoring and its own internal systems. Here is a look at six of the top banking apps used in Ireland. AIB said its mobile banking service provides the highest level of industry standard security. The bank has 2.2 million active users on its digital channels and said it is continuously making significant investments to enhance its fraud monitoring systems. In the bank's 2024-2026 strategic update it included spending of around €300m per year period to ensure a "future fit" platform, but did not give a specific breakdown on spending on the app. AIB Head of Financial Crime, Mary McHale, noted the ongoing investment is to enhance cyber security protection and broaden the range of mobile payments capability, while adhering to new and emerging regulation. "We released 'Selfie Check' which uses facial biometrics to verify a customer's identity via our AIB Mobile app, using the latest technology to recognise the things that make a customer's face unique, so we know it's you in control of your money", Ms McHale said. "In the event of a customer mislaying their card, they can put a temporary freeze on it through the mobile app, on our internet banking service, or through the kiosk in our branch. There is the ability to unfreeze the card if found, which can then be used again as normal," she said. AIB said it cannot comment on individual customer cases, however it noted that when a customer initiates and authorises a payment that they later realise was fraudulent, they advise them to report it to the Gardaí and to them as soon as possible to give them the best chance of retrieving the payment. It added that once a fraudulent payment is reported to them, they can then report the fraud to the receiving bank and request for the funds to be returned, unfortunately in some cases it may be too late. Revolut Digital finance Provider Revolut is a fully licensed bank in 30 EEA countries, including Ireland where it has three million customers. It is authorised by the European Central Bank and regulated by the Bank of Lithuania. Revolut said that in 2024 alone it prevented approximately €750m in potential fraud against its customers. It said it continually enhances the app's security features, this year launching in-app calls to help customers quickly expose impersonation scams, as well as implementing real-time AI fraud detection systems, transaction limits, biometric authentication requirements, and providing educational resources to help consumers remain informed about potential risks. The Revolut app security features include strict identity checks, biometric security, a dedicated control centre where customers can personalise their security settings across more than 10 features, complete card control (a customer's physical card must be activated in their app), Wealth Protection (an additional layer of biometric security), in-app calls, and 24/7 customer support. A Revolut spokesperson said: "Our financial crime experts, who now make up more than a third of our 10,000-strong workforce, are continuously innovating to stay one step ahead of scammers, implementing real-time AI fraud detection systems, transaction limits, biometric authentication requirements, and providing educational resources. This thereby ensures that our customers are increasingly less exposed to the industry-wide risk of fraud." Bank of Ireland Bank of Ireland said the standard for security measures is set by the PSD 2 Regulation and the regulatory technical standards. A dedicated team of around 200 people are employed by the bank to work 24/7 to address fraud attempts. Last year Bank of Ireland announced an investment of €50m in customer fraud prevention and protection, with €15m specifically allocated to new fraud prevention technology. The investment includes implementing voice biometric technology and enhancing self-service features on the mobile app. The bank operates device monitoring with a range fraud measures across the Bank of Ireland app and online channels, including fraud detection tools across customer activity, payment limits, effective warnings, strong customer authentication, in-channel messaging, and push notifications. Head of Fraud at Bank of Ireland, Nicola Sadlier, said where they have a suspicion, they will reach out to a customer by text or phone call. "Essentially that team is working 24/7 to manage alerts, reach out to customers and attempt to stop any fraud either on our channel or whether a customer's being caught up unknown to themselves," she said. If an app scam is reported the bank will investigate fully and report it to the Gardai unless the customer has already done so. Bank of Ireland said it may have to get on to beneficiary banks to look to recover funds and will keep customers informed at all stages of the investigation. As member of the BPFI working groups, industry forums, and the Cyber Defence Alliance, Ms Sadlier said understanding what other banks are experiencing is a key focus area. "The UK often start experiencing fraud attacks ahead of us, it's really important that we share trend information and learn what's happening and to get ready and respond," she said. An Post An Post is continually focused on ensuring that its An Post Money app is secure by constantly enhancing it based on market intelligence and its own fraud experiences and systems monitoring. Product Management Consultant at An Post, Bruce Richardson, said they have not seen a rise in app fraud among its customers. He credits this with An Post's back-end security measures and educating customers, including the Fraud "Stop & Think" notifications in the app. "The weakest point is the customer because we're socially engineered to believe if somebody phones you and says they're from the fraud department or whoever it might be, we're socially conditioned to accept that," said Mr Richardson. "Also the fraudsters have become more clever about how they do it, people think they're going to phone up and ask for your bank details but they've already done that they already have your information, they're only looking normally for that verification code that will be sent to your mobile device and that's the piece that they really want," he stated. One feature that An Post credits with being instrumental in protecting customers is its Dynamic CVV. This is a security feature that replaces the static three-digit CVV number on the back of your debit card with a new, one-time-use code generated within the An Post Money app for each online purchase. This measure makes the CVV number useless to fraudsters after it's been used. "The fraudsters buy databases of card details off the dark web but the key piece that they don't have then is the CVV, and then because it changes every five minutes on the app it has been a key part for us to help curtail the fraudulent activity from a numbers perspective, he added. N26 German online bank N26 operates primarily through a mobile app and is a fully licenced digital bank. It is in operation in multiple countries across Europe, including Ireland. Governed by the same regulations as all traditional banks, N26 adheres to strict regulations on security, compliance, and financial crime prevention. It said it uses state-of-the-art systems to ensure its app is highly secure, to stay ahead of fraudsters and eliminate possible human error. The key security processes it uses are the "Know-Your-Customer" process which verifies a customer's identity and confirms that they are who they claim to be. N26 also carries out ongoing transaction monitoring to detect suspicious activity, and reauthentication which protects against identity and password theft. The secure features include but are not limited to a single paired device, two factor authentication, fingerprint and facial recognition, instant notifications, in-app card locking and pin change, location tracking and smart payment blocks The current trends the digital bank has identified in the last two years following reports by N26users in Europe are: - Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud, where malicious actors convince victims to authorize payments themselves - digital wallet fraud, where criminals link users' cards to wallets to make unauthorised transactions - marketplace scams - where fraudsters entice customers with attractive offers for goods that never are received - postal fraud - which typically contain phishing messages to obtain sensitive customer information PTSB PTSB said it has robust security and fraud protection features in-built in its app to provide customers with a safe and convenient channel to meet their banking needs on the go. In a global banking first, the bank introduced "PTSB Protect", a feature to its mobile app which helps prevent customers falling victim to fraudulent scams and is continuously investing in this feature. PTSB Protect alerts customers if they receive a text message containing a fraudulent link or block them from accessing a suspicious website on their mobile device. It compares links received or accessed on a customer's phone against a known blocklist of links which pose as legitimate websites to deceptively obtain a customer's personal or banking details. Where a link matches an entry on the blocklist – which is maintained and updated daily by the bank – the website will either be blocked or an alert will be sent to the customer. The bank's dedicated fraud team carries out 24/7/365 real-time fraud monitoring of all app activity and transactions and provides 24/7/365 Agent support. A PTSB spokesperson said: "We have invested, and continue to invest, significantly in security and fraud prevention and detection across all our channels, including our mobile app and desktop banking services". "This includes the 'PTSB Protect; feature on our mobile app which has supported a 64% reduction in customer account exposure year on year," the spokesperson said. "As fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated, we communicate with our customers on an ongoing basis on how to avoid fraud and scams across all of our channels, in addition to our participation in the banking industry's FraudSMART programme," the spokesperson added.
The Star
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
K-pop sensation Jang Dong Woo of Infinite to thrill the fans in his solo concert at Zepp KL on Aug 15
KUALA LUMPUR: The powerhouse performer and beloved member of K-pop sensation Infinite, Jang Dong Woo, is making a highly anticipated return to Kuala Lumpur — this time as a solo artist. The multi-talented rapper and dancer will meet fans through his 2025 JANG DONG WOO FAN-CON TOUR IN KUALA LUMPUR on August 15th at 8pm at the ZEPP Kuala Lumpur. Organized by Star Planet, this marks Dong Woo's first solo fan-con in Malaysia, promising an evening of heartfelt performances, personal interactions, and an immersive atmosphere that celebrates the deep bond between artist and fans. Since his debut with Infinite in 2010, Dong Woo has stood out as one of the group's most dynamic and multifaceted members. Known for his high-energy stage presence and unmistakable rap style, he has contributed significantly to INFINITE's success through hit tracks like 'BTD,' 'The Chaser,' and 'Last Romeo.' In 2019, Dong Woo unveiled his first solo album, 'BYE,' featuring seven tracks that highlight his artistic versatility—from hard-hitting rap and vibrant rhythms to soulful, introspective melodies. The album includes standout tracks such as 'I Am,' 'News,' 'Gun,' 'Romeo,' 'Party Girl,' 'Perfect,' and 'Something Between.' Beyond music, Dong Woo continues to shine across dance, variety, and creative platforms—an embodiment of artistic passion and growth. His constant evolution has solidified his standing in the K-POP world, earning him unwavering admiration from fans worldwide. The tour spans five major cities—Seoul, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, and Hong Kong—and promises an intimate fan experience through powerful performances and meaningful interactions. Each stop serves as a platform to connect deeply with fans, celebrating a shared journey through music and emotion. Ticketing Information Tickets for the 2025 JANG DONG WOO FAN-CON TOUR IN KUALA LUMPUR will go on sale June 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM, exclusively via Don't miss this opportunity to form a unique connection with Dong Woo — a night of unforgettable memories, powerful music, and heartfelt moments awaits. For further details, visit
National Business Review
14-06-2025
- Business
- National Business Review
Buying the dip: why it's not as simple as it seems
Two weeks ago, I reviewed the strategy of, and rationale for, buying the dip (BTD). Today, I will continue that topic, speculating that recent 'dips' may not offer a good indication of future 'dips' both in terms of duration and amplitude. I will also examine why the BTD strategy has become so Want to read more? It's easy. Choose your subscription Already have an account? Login Smartphone Only Subscription NZ$29.95 / monthly Monthly Premium Online Subscription NZ$49.95 / monthly Smartphone Only Annual Subscription NZ$299.00 / yearly Yearly Premium Online Subscription NZ$499.00 / yearly Premium Group Membership 10 Users NZ$385 +GST / monthly $38.5 per user - Pay by monthly credit card debit Premium Group Membership 20 Users NZ$660 +GST / monthly $33 per user - Pay by monthly credit card debit Premium Group Membership 50 Users NZ$1375 +GST / monthly $27.5 per user - Pay by monthly credit card debit Premium Group Membership 100 Users NZ$2100 +GST / monthly $21 per user - Pay by monthly credit card debit Yearly Premium Online Subscription + NBR Marketplace NZ$999.00 / yearly Individual Group membership NBR Marketplace Student Exclusive FREE offer for uni students studying at a New Zealand university (valued at $499). View terms and conditions.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Viridian Therapeutics Announces Positive Long-Term Durability Data from the Veligrotug Phase 3 THRIVE Clinical Trial in Patients with Active Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)
- 70% of patients treated with veligrotug in THRIVE who were proptosis responders at week 15 maintained their response at week 52 - - Veligrotug recently received Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD), supporting eligibility for Priority Review; the BTD request was based on veligrotug's (i) consistent and robust improvement and resolution of diplopia in chronic TED, and (ii) rapid onset of proptosis response - - Biologics License Application (BLA) submission for veligrotug is on track for second half 2025 - - Actively preparing organization for planned U.S. commercial launch in 2026 - WALTHAM, Mass., May 20, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Viridian Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRDN), a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing potential best-in-class medicines for serious and rare diseases, today announced positive long-term durability data from the THRIVE phase 3 clinical trial of veligrotug ("veli"), an intravenously delivered anti-insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) antibody, in patients with active thyroid eye disease (TED). TED is an autoimmune condition characterized by inflammation, growth, and damage to tissues around and behind the eye. The THRIVE phase 3 clinical trial in active TED evaluated 5 infusions of veli or placebo every three weeks with primary topline analysis at week 15 and then followed patients through week 52. Positive Veligrotug Durability at 52 Weeks 70% of veligrotug patients (21/30) in THRIVE, who were proptosis responders at week 15 and continued follow-up to the end of the study at week 52, maintained their proptosis response. Maintenance of response is defined as responders at week 15 who still had at least a 2-millimeter (mm) reduction in proptosis compared to baseline at week 52, without worsening in the fellow eye (≥2 mm increase), as measured by exophthalmometry. There were no changes to the safety profile in the follow-up period. The vast majority of adverse events reported at the week 15 primary analysis had resolved by week 52. "We view the strength of today's durability and safety resolution data as reinforcing veli's strong and consistently robust clinical profile," said Steve Mahoney, Viridian's President and CEO. "We believe that the totality of veligrotug's clinical data continues to demonstrate its potential to be the treatment-of-choice for patients living with TED. We believe these data, together with a streamlined dosing regimen of five infusions, position veli to become a market leading TED therapeutic, if approved. We continue to make great progress towards submitting the BLA in the second half of this year and preparing for a potential launch in 2026." Robust Veligrotug Topline Clinical Profile for Active and Chronic TED As announced in late 2024, veligrotug met all of its primary and secondary endpoints and was generally well-tolerated in its pivotal phase 3 clinical trials, THRIVE and THRIVE-2, for active and chronic TED, respectively. Veligrotug demonstrated a rapid onset of treatment effect and statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction and resolution of diplopia in both clinical trials. THRIVE-2 was the first data set from a global phase 3 clinical trial in chronic TED patients to demonstrate statistically significant diplopia response and resolution. Together, THRIVE and THRIVE-2 comprise the largest pivotal program to date in TED. About Veligrotug Veligrotug is an intravenously (IV) delivered, anti-insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) antibody in phase 3 development for thyroid eye disease, with the potential to be the IV treatment-of-choice for active and chronic TED patients. IGF-1R is a clinically and commercially validated target for thyroid eye disease (TED) with U.S. revenues of approximately $2 billion in 2024. Veligrotug has the potential to improve patient experience with a differentiated dosing regimen that features a shorter infusion time and fewer infusions compared to the currently approved and marketed IGF-1R inhibitor. In its pivotal phase 3 clinical trials, THRIVE and THRIVE-2, veligrotug met all of its primary and secondary endpoints. Veligrotug demonstrated a rapid onset of treatment effect and statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction and resolution of diplopia in both clinical trials. THRIVE-2 was the first demonstration in a global phase 3 clinical trial of a statistically significant diplopia response and resolution in chronic TED patients. Veligrotug was generally well tolerated. Viridian believes that the robust veligrotug clinical profile has the potential to establish a strong position in the TED commercial market, if approved, and may help facilitate the introduction of VRDN-003, its potential best-in-class subcutaneous IGF-1R antibody for TED. About Viridian Therapeutics Viridian is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing and commercializing potential best-in-class medicines for patients with serious and rare diseases. Viridian's expertise in antibody discovery and protein engineering enables the development of differentiated therapeutic candidates for previously validated drug targets in commercially established disease areas. Viridian is advancing multiple candidates in the clinic for the treatment of patients with thyroid eye disease (TED). The company is conducting a pivotal program for veligrotug (VRDN-001), including two global phase 3 clinical trials (THRIVE and THRIVE-2), to evaluate its efficacy and safety in patients with active and chronic TED. Both THRIVE and THRIVE-2 reported positive topline data, meeting all the primary and secondary endpoints of each study. Viridian is also advancing VRDN-003 as a potential best-in-class subcutaneous therapy for the treatment of TED, including two ongoing global phase 3 pivotal clinical trials, REVEAL-1 and REVEAL-2, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of VRDN-003 in patients with active and chronic TED. In addition to its TED portfolio, Viridian is advancing a novel portfolio of neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) inhibitors, including VRDN-006 and VRDN-008, which has the potential to be developed in multiple autoimmune diseases. Viridian is based in Waltham, Massachusetts. For more information, please visit Follow Viridian on LinkedIn and X. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of words such as, but not limited to, "anticipate," "believe," "become," "continue," "could," "design," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "might," "on track," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "target," "will," or "would" or other similar terms or expressions that concern our expectations, plans and intentions. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based on our current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding: clinical development and anticipated commercialization of Viridian's product candidates, including veligrotug (formerly VRDN-001) and VRDN-003; the potential utility, efficacy, potency, safety, clinical benefits, clinical response, convenience, and number of indications of veligrotug and VRDN-003, including Viridian's view of the strength of the THRIVE durability and safety resolution data and veligrotug's robust clinical profile; veligrotug's potential to be the IV treatment-of-choice for active and chronic TED; the impact of Breakthrough Therapy Designation, including eligibility for Priority Review, or any other FDA designations; regulatory interactions and anticipated timing of regulatory submissions, including the anticipated BLA submission for veligrotug in the second half of 2025; potential market sizes and market opportunities for Viridian's product candidates, including Viridian's belief that veligrotug is positioned to become a market leading TED therapeutic, if approved; Viridian's product candidates potentially being best-in-class; whether veligrotug will serve an unmet need; veligrotug's potential to improve patient experience over existing therapies; and Viridian's expectations regarding the potential commercialization of veligrotug and VRDN-003, if approved, including the potential U.S. launch of veligrotug in 2026. New risks and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all risks and uncertainties. No representations or warranties (expressed or implied) are made about the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of material risks and uncertainties including but not limited to: potential utility, efficacy, potency, safety, clinical benefits, clinical response, and convenience of Viridian's product candidates; that results or data from completed or ongoing clinical trials may not be representative of the results of ongoing or future clinical trials; that preliminary data may not be representative of final data; expectations and changes regarding the timing for regulatory filings; regulatory interactions; uncertainty and potential delays related to clinical drug development; the timing of and our ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approvals for our therapeutic candidates; competition from other therapies or products; estimates of market size; our future operating results and financial performance; Viridian's intellectual property position; that our product candidates may not be commercially successful, if approved; and other risks described from time to time in the "Risk Factors" section of our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including those described in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as applicable, and supplemented from time to time by our Current Reports on Form 8-K. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was made. Neither the company, nor its affiliates, advisors, or representatives, undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the company's views as of any date subsequent to the date hereof. View source version on Contacts IR@ Media@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
