Latest news with #ESMO
Business Wire
30-05-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
CORRECTING and REPLACING New XOFIGO ® (radium-223 dichloride) Data in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer from Phase III PEACE III Trial Published in Annals of Oncology
WHIPPANY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Reissuing release to remove eighth paragraph. The updated release reads: XOFIGO ® (radium-223 dichloride) in combination with enzalutamide significantly increased radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with bone metastases, with a 31% reduction in the risk of progression or death compared to enzalutamide alone (HR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.87; p=0.0009) At the pre-planned interim analysis, patients treated with XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide also demonstrated statistically significant overall survival (OS), with a 31% reduction in the risk of death (HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.52-0.90; p=0.0031), and a median OS of 42.3 months (95% CI 36.8-49.1) for XOFIGO plus enzalutamide compared to 35.0 months (95% CI 28.8-38.9) in the enzalutamide arm Results were previously presented as a late-breaking abstract during the Presidential Symposium at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) 2024 Annual Meeting Annals of Oncology published full results from the pivotal investigational Phase III PEACE III trial, evaluating XOFIGO ® (radium-223 dichloride) in combination with enzalutamide, an AR pathway inhibitor (ARPI), versus enzalutamide alone in the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with bone metastases. 1 XOFIGO is indicated for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastases and no known visceral metastatic disease. 2 Initially presented as a late-breaking abstract during the Presidential Symposium at ESMO 2024, results demonstrated that the addition of XOFIGO to enzalutamide significantly increased radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) for patients with mCRPC with bone metastases, with a 31% reduction in the risk of progression or death (HR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.87; p=0.0009) compared to enzalutamide alone. 1,3 Patients receiving XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide had a median rPFS of 19.4 months (95% CI, 17.1-25.3 months) compared to 16.4 months (95% CI, 13.8-19.2 months) with enzalutamide, a 3-month difference in median rPFS. 1,3 The trial was a collaboration between the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), Clinical Trial Ireland (CTI), the Canadian Urological Oncology Group (CUOG), the Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), and French UNICANCER Urogenital Tumor Study Group (GETUG). Additionally, at a preplanned interim analysis the results demonstrated statistically significant overall survival (OS), with a 31% reduction in the risk of death (HR=0.69; 95% CI 0.52-0.90; p=0.0031), with a median OS of 35.0 months (95% CI 28.8-38.9) in the enzalutamide arm compared to 42.3 months (95% CI 36.8-49.1) for XOFIGO plus enzalutamide. 1 The study will continue to the final OS analysis. XOFIGO is the first and only alpha emitting radiopharmaceutical that treats bone metastases in mCRPC approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 'PEACE III is the first major Phase III trial to combine an ARPI with radiopharmaceutical that showed statistical significance in meeting the primary endpoint,' said Denis Lacombe, Chief Executive Officer, EORTC. 'The EORTC is proud to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking trial, helping to redefine the development of clinical trials and supporting patient care for difficult to treat diseases.' The results were consistent with the established safety profile of XOFIGO, although authors noted the importance of administering bone protective agents (BPAs) to avoid fractures. Following the release of the ERA-223 results, the PEACE III study was amended in March 2018 making BPAs mandatory at the monthly skeletal-related-event dose. The observed reduction in fractures following this amendment underlined the importance of using a BPA in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and bone metastasis also in the era of ARPI's. 4 Grade 3 or higher treatment emergent adverse events (TEAE) were recorded in 65.6% of patients in the combination arm compared to 55.8% of patients who received enzalutamide alone. 1 The most frequent Grade 3 or higher TEAEs were hypertension (34%), fatigue (6%), fracture (5%), anemia (5%), and neutropenia (5%). 1 Fractures (either treatment-emergent or post-treatment, symptomatic or pathologic, or with or without BPA use) were reported in 24.3% of patients in the combination arm and 13.4% of patients in the enzalutamide arm. 1 These results demonstrate the potential for this combination to be a new treatment option for patients with mCRPC and bone metastases who have experienced disease progression on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). 'There remains an unmet patient need for people living with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have bone metastases,' said Christine Roth, Global Head of Product Strategy and Commercialization at Bayer's Pharmaceuticals Division. 'The PEACE III trial underscores our dedication to advancing therapies for patients with prostate cancer and exploring the full potential of XOFIGO.' The trial is supported by Astellas and Pfizer who manufacture enzalutamide (Xtandi) in collaboration with Bayer. About PEACE III (EORTC GUCG-1333) The PEACE III trial is an international, randomized, open-label, Phase III trial designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and bone metastases. A total of 446 patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either XOFIGO 55 kBq/kg as an intravenous injection monthly for six cycles in combination with enzalutamide 160mg orally daily or enzalutamide 160mg orally daily. The primary endpoint was radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) by investigator assessment. Key secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), time to subsequent systemic treatment, pain progression, and symptomatic skeletal event. This trial was a collaboration with several cancer cooperative groups: EORTC, CTI, CUOG, LACOG, and GETUG. About Xofigo ® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection 2 Xofigo is indicated for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastases and no known visceral metastatic disease. Important Safety Information for Xofigo ® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection Warnings and Precautions: Bone Marrow Suppression: In the phase 3 ALSYMPCA trial, 2% of patients in the Xofigo arm experienced bone marrow failure or ongoing pancytopenia, compared to no patients treated with placebo. There were two deaths due to bone marrow failure. For 7 of 13 patients treated with Xofigo bone marrow failure was ongoing at the time of death. Among the 13 patients who experienced bone marrow failure, 54% required blood transfusions. Four percent (4%) of patients in the Xofigo arm and 2% in the placebo arm permanently discontinued therapy due to bone marrow suppression. In the randomized trial, deaths related to vascular hemorrhage in association with myelosuppression were observed in 1% of Xofigo-treated patients compared to 0.3% of patients treated with placebo. The incidence of infection-related deaths (2%), serious infections (10%), and febrile neutropenia (<1%) was similar for patients treated with Xofigo and placebo. Myelosuppression–notably thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, and leukopenia–has been reported in patients treated with Xofigo. Monitor patients with evidence of compromised bone marrow reserve closely and provide supportive care measures when clinically indicated. Discontinue Xofigo in patients who experience life-threatening complications despite supportive care for bone marrow failure Hematological Evaluation: Monitor blood counts at baseline and prior to every dose of Xofigo. Prior to first administering Xofigo, the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be ≥1.5 × 109/L, the platelet count ≥100 × 109/L, and hemoglobin ≥10 g/dL. Prior to subsequent administrations, the ANC should be ≥1 × 109/L and the platelet count ≥50 × 109/L. Discontinue Xofigo if hematologic values do not recover within 6 to 8 weeks after the last administration despite receiving supportive care Concomitant Use With Chemotherapy: Safety and efficacy of concomitant chemotherapy with Xofigo have not been established. Outside of a clinical trial, concomitant use of Xofigo in patients on chemotherapy is not recommended due to the potential for additive myelosuppression. If chemotherapy, other systemic radioisotopes, or hemibody external radiotherapy are administered during the treatment period, Xofigo should be discontinued Increased Fractures and Mortality in Combination With Abiraterone Plus Prednisone/Prednisolone: Xofigo is not recommended for use in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone outside of clinical trials. At the primary analysis of the Phase 3 ERA-223 study that evaluated concurrent initiation of Xofigo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone in 806 asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic mCRPC patients, an increased incidence of fractures (28.6% vs 11.4%) and deaths (38.5% vs 35.5%) have been observed in patients who received Xofigo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone compared to patients who received placebo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone. Safety and efficacy with the combination of Xofigo and agents other than gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues have not been established Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: The safety and efficacy of Xofigo have not been established in females. Xofigo can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female. Advise pregnant females and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise male patients to use condoms and their female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during and for 6 months after completing treatment with Xofigo Administration and Radiation Protection: Xofigo should be received, used, and administered only by authorized persons in designated clinical settings. The administration of Xofigo is associated with potential risks to other persons from radiation or contamination from spills of bodily fluids such as urine, feces, or vomit. Therefore, radiation protection precautions must be taken in accordance with national and local regulations Fluid Status: Dehydration occurred in 3% of patients on Xofigo and 1% of patients on placebo. Xofigo increases adverse reactions such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, which may result in dehydration. Monitor patients' oral intake and fluid status carefully and promptly treat patients who display signs or symptoms of dehydration or hypovolemia Injection Site Reactions: Erythema, pain, and edema at the injection site were reported in 1% of patients on Xofigo Secondary Malignant Neoplasms: Xofigo contributes to a patient's overall long-term cumulative radiation exposure. Long-term cumulative radiation exposure may be associated with an increased risk of cancer and hereditary defects. Due to its mechanism of action and neoplastic changes, including osteosarcomas, in rats following administration of radium-223 dichloride, Xofigo may increase the risk of osteosarcoma or other secondary malignant neoplasms. However, the overall incidence of new malignancies in the randomized trial was lower on the Xofigo arm compared to placebo (<1% vs 2%; respectively), but the expected latency period for the development of secondary malignancies exceeds the duration of follow-up for patients on the trial Subsequent Treatment With Cytotoxic Chemotherapy: In the randomized clinical trial, 16% of patients in the Xofigo group and 18% of patients in the placebo group received cytotoxic chemotherapy after completion of study treatments. Adequate safety monitoring and laboratory testing was not performed to assess how patients treated with Xofigo will tolerate subsequent cytotoxic chemotherapy Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) in the Xofigo arm vs the placebo arm, respectively, were nausea (36% vs 35%), diarrhea (25% vs 15%), vomiting (19% vs 14%), and peripheral edema (13% vs 10%). Grade 3 and 4 adverse events were reported in 57% of Xofigo-treated patients and 63% of placebo-treated patients. The most common hematologic laboratory abnormalities in the Xofigo arm (≥10%) vs the placebo arm, respectively, were anemia (93% vs 88%), lymphocytopenia (72% vs 53%), leukopenia (35% vs 10%), thrombocytopenia (31% vs 22%), and neutropenia (18% vs 5%). Please see the full Prescribing Information for Xofigo (radium Ra 223 dichloride). About Oncology at Bayer Bayer is committed to delivering science for a better life by advancing a portfolio of innovative treatments. The oncology franchise at Bayer includes six marketed products and several other assets in various stages of clinical development. Together, these products reflect the company's approach to research, which prioritizes targets and pathways with the potential to impact the way that cancer is treated. About Bayer Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, 'Health for all, Hunger for none,' the company's products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2023, the Group employed around 100,000 people and had sales of 47.6 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 5.8 billion euros. For more information, go to © 2025 Bayer BAYER, the Bayer Cross and XOFIGO are registered trademarks of Bayer. Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer's public reports which are available on the Bayer website at The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments. References Tombal. B., et al. Enzalutamide plus Radium-223 in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Results of the EORTC 1333/PEACE-3 trial. Annals of Oncology. May 30, 2025. DOI: 10.1016/ Gillessen, S., et al. A randomized multicenter open label phase III trial comparing enzalutamide vs a combination of Radium-223 (Ra223) and enzalutamide in asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic patients with bone metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC): First results of EORTC-GUCG 1333/PEACE-3. European Society of Medical Oncology 2025 (ESMO) LBA1. September 9, 2024. Xofigo ® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection [Prescribing Information]. Whippany, NJ: Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, December 2019. Gillessen S, et al. Decrease in Fracture Rate with Mandatory Bone-protecting Agents in the EORTC 1333/PEACE-3 Trial Comparing Radium-223 Combined with Enzalutamide Versus Enzalutamide Alone: A Safety Analysis. Eur Urol. 2025 Mar;87(3):285-288.
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
New XOFIGO® (radium-223 dichloride) Data in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer from Phase III PEACE III Trial Published in Annals of Oncology
XOFIGO® (radium-223 dichloride) in combination with enzalutamide significantly increased radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with bone metastases, with a 31% reduction in the risk of progression or death compared to enzalutamide alone (HR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.87; p=0.0009) At the pre-planned interim analysis, patients treated with XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide also demonstrated statistically significant overall survival (OS), with a 31% reduction in the risk of death (HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.52-0.90; p=0.0031), and a median OS of 42.3 months (95% CI 36.8-49.1) for XOFIGO plus enzalutamide compared to 35.0 months (95% CI 28.8-38.9) in the enzalutamide arm Results were previously presented as a late-breaking abstract during the Presidential Symposium at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) 2024 Annual Meeting WHIPPANY, N.J., May 30, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Annals of Oncology published full results from the pivotal investigational Phase III PEACE III trial, evaluating XOFIGO® (radium-223 dichloride) in combination with enzalutamide, an AR pathway inhibitor (ARPI), versus enzalutamide alone in the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with bone metastases.1 XOFIGO is indicated for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastases and no known visceral metastatic disease.2 Initially presented as a late-breaking abstract during the Presidential Symposium at ESMO 2024, results demonstrated that the addition of XOFIGO to enzalutamide significantly increased radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) for patients with mCRPC with bone metastases, with a 31% reduction in the risk of progression or death (HR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.87; p=0.0009) compared to enzalutamide alone.1,3 Patients receiving XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide had a median rPFS of 19.4 months (95% CI, 17.1-25.3 months) compared to 16.4 months (95% CI, 13.8-19.2 months) with enzalutamide, a 3-month difference in median rPFS.1,3 The trial was a collaboration between the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), Clinical Trial Ireland (CTI), the Canadian Urological Oncology Group (CUOG), the Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), and French UNICANCER Urogenital Tumor Study Group (GETUG). Additionally, at a preplanned interim analysis the results demonstrated statistically significant overall survival (OS), with a 31% reduction in the risk of death (HR=0.69; 95% CI 0.52-0.90; p=0.0031), with a median OS of 35.0 months (95% CI 28.8-38.9) in the enzalutamide arm compared to 42.3 months (95% CI 36.8-49.1) for XOFIGO plus enzalutamide.1 The study will continue to the final OS analysis. XOFIGO is the first and only alpha emitting radiopharmaceutical that treats bone metastases in mCRPC approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). "PEACE III is the first major Phase III trial to combine an ARPI with radiopharmaceutical that showed statistical significance in meeting the primary endpoint," said Denis Lacombe, Chief Executive Officer, EORTC. "The EORTC is proud to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking trial, helping to redefine the development of clinical trials and supporting patient care for difficult to treat diseases." The results were consistent with the established safety profile of XOFIGO, although authors noted the importance of administering bone protective agents (BPAs) to avoid fractures. Following the release of the ERA-223 results, the PEACE III study was amended in March 2018 making BPAs mandatory at the monthly skeletal-related-event dose. The observed reduction in fractures following this amendment underlined the importance of using a BPA in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and bone metastasis also in the era of ARPI's.4 Grade 3 or higher treatment emergent adverse events (TEAE) were recorded in 65.6% of patients in the combination arm compared to 55.8% of patients who received enzalutamide alone.1 The most frequent Grade 3 or higher TEAEs were hypertension (34%), fatigue (6%), fracture (5%), anemia (5%), and neutropenia (5%).1 Fractures (either treatment-emergent or post-treatment, symptomatic or pathologic, or with or without BPA use) were reported in 24.3% of patients in the combination arm and 13.4% of patients in the enzalutamide arm.1 These results demonstrate the potential for this combination to be a new treatment option for patients with mCRPC and bone metastases who have experienced disease progression on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). "There remains an unmet patient need for people living with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have bone metastases," said Christine Roth, Global Head of Product Strategy and Commercialization at Bayer's Pharmaceuticals Division. "The PEACE III trial underscores our dedication to advancing therapies for patients with prostate cancer and exploring the full potential of XOFIGO." Bayer has submitted a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) to the FDA for XOFIGO for the treatment of patients with mCRPC and who have bone metastases in combination with enzalutamide based on positive results from the Phase III PEACE trial. Bayer will submit applications for marketing authorizations of XOFIGO to additional health authorities as well. The trial is supported by Astellas and Pfizer who manufacture enzalutamide (Xtandi) in collaboration with Bayer. About PEACE III (EORTC GUCG-1333) The PEACE III trial is an international, randomized, open-label, Phase III trial designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and bone metastases. A total of 446 patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either XOFIGO 55 kBq/kg as an intravenous injection monthly for six cycles in combination with enzalutamide 160mg orally daily or enzalutamide 160mg orally daily. The primary endpoint was radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) by investigator assessment. Key secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), time to subsequent systemic treatment, pain progression, and symptomatic skeletal event. This trial was a collaboration with several cancer cooperative groups: EORTC, CTI, CUOG, LACOG, and GETUG. About Xofigo® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection2 Xofigo is indicated for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastases and no known visceral metastatic disease. Important Safety Information for Xofigo® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection Warnings and Precautions: Bone Marrow Suppression: In the phase 3 ALSYMPCA trial, 2% of patients in theXofigo arm experienced bone marrow failure or ongoing pancytopenia, compared to no patients treated with placebo. There were two deaths due to bone marrow failure. For 7 of 13 patients treated with Xofigo bone marrow failure was ongoing at the time of death. Among the 13 patients who experienced bone marrow failure, 54% required blood transfusions. Four percent (4%) of patients in the Xofigo arm and 2% in the placebo arm permanently discontinued therapy due to bone marrow suppression. In the randomized trial, deaths related to vascular hemorrhage in association with myelosuppression were observed in 1% of Xofigo-treated patients compared to 0.3% of patients treated with placebo. The incidence of infection-related deaths (2%), serious infections (10%), and febrile neutropenia (<1%) was similar for patients treated with Xofigo and placebo. Myelosuppression–notably thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, and leukopenia–has been reported in patients treated with patients with evidence of compromised bone marrow reserve closely and provide supportive care measures when clinically indicated. Discontinue Xofigo in patients who experience life-threatening complications despite supportive care for bone marrow failure Hematological Evaluation: Monitor blood counts at baseline and prior to every dose of Xofigo. Prior to first administering Xofigo, the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be ≥1.5 × 109/L, the platelet count ≥100 × 109/L, and hemoglobin ≥10 g/dL. Prior to subsequent administrations, the ANC should be ≥1 × 109/L and the platelet count ≥50 × 109/L. Discontinue Xofigo if hematologic values do not recover within 6 to 8 weeks after the last administration despite receiving supportive care Concomitant Use With Chemotherapy: Safety and efficacy of concomitantchemotherapy with Xofigo have not been established. Outside of a clinical trial,concomitant use of Xofigo in patients on chemotherapy is not recommended due to the potential for additive myelosuppression. If chemotherapy, other systemic radioisotopes, or hemibody external radiotherapy are administered during the treatment period, Xofigo should be discontinued Increased Fractures and Mortality in Combination With Abiraterone Plus Prednisone/Prednisolone: Xofigo is not recommended for use in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone outside of clinical trials. At the primary analysis of the Phase 3 ERA-223 study that evaluated concurrent initiation of Xofigo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone in 806 asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic mCRPC patients, an increased incidence of fractures (28.6% vs 11.4%) and deaths (38.5% vs 35.5%) have been observed in patients who received Xofigo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone compared to patients who received placebo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone. Safety and efficacy with the combination of Xofigo and agents other than gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues have not been established Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: The safety and efficacy of Xofigo have not been established in females. Xofigo can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female. Advise pregnant females and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise male patients to use condoms and their female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during and for 6 months after completing treatment with Xofigo Administration and Radiation Protection: Xofigo should be received, used, and administered only by authorized persons in designated clinical settings. The administration of Xofigo is associated with potential risks to other persons from radiation or contamination from spills of bodily fluids such as urine, feces, or vomit. Therefore, radiation protection precautions must be taken in accordance with national and local regulations Fluid Status: Dehydration occurred in 3% of patients on Xofigo and 1% of patients on placebo. Xofigo increases adverse reactions such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, which may result in dehydration. Monitor patients' oral intake and fluid status carefully and promptly treat patients who display signs or symptoms of dehydration or hypovolemia Injection Site Reactions: Erythema, pain, and edema at the injection site were reported in 1% of patients on Xofigo Secondary Malignant Neoplasms: Xofigo contributes to a patient's overall long-term cumulative radiation exposure. Long-term cumulative radiation exposure may be associated with an increased risk of cancer and hereditary defects. Due to its mechanism of action and neoplastic changes, including osteosarcomas, in rats following administration of radium-223 dichloride, Xofigo may increase the risk of osteosarcoma or other secondary malignant neoplasms. However, the overall incidence of new malignancies in the randomized trial was lower on the Xofigo arm compared to placebo (<1% vs 2%; respectively), but the expected latency period for the development of secondary malignancies exceeds the duration of follow-up for patients on the trial Subsequent Treatment With Cytotoxic Chemotherapy: In the randomized clinical trial, 16% of patients in the Xofigo group and 18% of patients in the placebo group received cytotoxic chemotherapy after completion of study treatments. Adequate safety monitoring and laboratory testing was not performed to assess how patients treated with Xofigo will tolerate subsequent cytotoxic chemotherapy Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) in the Xofigo arm vs the placebo arm, respectively, were nausea (36% vs 35%), diarrhea (25% vs 15%), vomiting (19% vs 14%), and peripheral edema (13% vs 10%). Grade 3 and 4 adverse events were reported in 57% of Xofigo-treated patients and 63% of placebo-treated patients. The most common hematologic laboratory abnormalities in the Xofigo arm (≥10%) vs the placebo arm, respectively, were anemia (93% vs 88%), lymphocytopenia (72% vs 53%), leukopenia (35% vs 10%), thrombocytopenia (31% vs 22%), and neutropenia (18% vs 5%). Please see the full Prescribing Information for Xofigo (radium Ra 223 dichloride). About Oncology at Bayer Bayer is committed to delivering science for a better life by advancing a portfolio of innovative treatments. The oncology franchise at Bayer includes six marketed products and several other assets in various stages of clinical development. Together, these products reflect the company's approach to research, which prioritizes targets and pathways with the potential to impact the way that cancer is treated. About Bayer Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, "Health for all, Hunger for none," the company's products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2023, the Group employed around 100,000 people and had sales of 47.6 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 5.8 billion euros. For more information, go to © 2025 BayerBAYER, the Bayer Cross and XOFIGO are registered trademarks of Bayer. Find more information at Our online press service is just a click away: Follow us on Facebook: Follow us on X: Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer's public reports which are available on the Bayer website at The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments. References Tombal. B., et al. Enzalutamide plus Radium-223 in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Results of the EORTC 1333/PEACE-3 trial. Annals of Oncology. May 30, 2025. DOI: 10.1016/ Gillessen, S., et al. A randomized multicenter open label phase III trial comparing enzalutamide vs a combination of Radium-223 (Ra223) and enzalutamide in asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic patients with bone metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC): First results of EORTC-GUCG 1333/PEACE-3. European Society of Medical Oncology 2025 (ESMO) LBA1. September 9, 2024. Xofigo® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection [Prescribing Information]. Whippany, NJ: Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, December 2019. Gillessen S, et al. Decrease in Fracture Rate with Mandatory Bone-protecting Agents in the EORTC 1333/PEACE-3 Trial Comparing Radium-223 Combined with Enzalutamide Versus Enzalutamide Alone: A Safety Analysis. Eur Urol. 2025 Mar;87(3):285-288. View source version on Contacts Media Contact: Polina Miklush, Tel + 862.431.8817Email:
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
New XOFIGO® (radium-223 dichloride) Data in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer from Phase III PEACE III Trial Published in Annals of Oncology
XOFIGO® (radium-223 dichloride) in combination with enzalutamide significantly increased radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with bone metastases, with a 31% reduction in the risk of progression or death compared to enzalutamide alone (HR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.87; p=0.0009) At the pre-planned interim analysis, patients treated with XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide also demonstrated statistically significant overall survival (OS), with a 31% reduction in the risk of death (HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.52-0.90; p=0.0031), and a median OS of 42.3 months (95% CI 36.8-49.1) for XOFIGO plus enzalutamide compared to 35.0 months (95% CI 28.8-38.9) in the enzalutamide arm Results were previously presented as a late-breaking abstract during the Presidential Symposium at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) 2024 Annual Meeting WHIPPANY, N.J., May 30, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Annals of Oncology published full results from the pivotal investigational Phase III PEACE III trial, evaluating XOFIGO® (radium-223 dichloride) in combination with enzalutamide, an AR pathway inhibitor (ARPI), versus enzalutamide alone in the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) with bone metastases.1 XOFIGO is indicated for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastases and no known visceral metastatic disease.2 Initially presented as a late-breaking abstract during the Presidential Symposium at ESMO 2024, results demonstrated that the addition of XOFIGO to enzalutamide significantly increased radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) for patients with mCRPC with bone metastases, with a 31% reduction in the risk of progression or death (HR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.87; p=0.0009) compared to enzalutamide alone.1,3 Patients receiving XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide had a median rPFS of 19.4 months (95% CI, 17.1-25.3 months) compared to 16.4 months (95% CI, 13.8-19.2 months) with enzalutamide, a 3-month difference in median rPFS.1,3 The trial was a collaboration between the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), Clinical Trial Ireland (CTI), the Canadian Urological Oncology Group (CUOG), the Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), and French UNICANCER Urogenital Tumor Study Group (GETUG). Additionally, at a preplanned interim analysis the results demonstrated statistically significant overall survival (OS), with a 31% reduction in the risk of death (HR=0.69; 95% CI 0.52-0.90; p=0.0031), with a median OS of 35.0 months (95% CI 28.8-38.9) in the enzalutamide arm compared to 42.3 months (95% CI 36.8-49.1) for XOFIGO plus enzalutamide.1 The study will continue to the final OS analysis. XOFIGO is the first and only alpha emitting radiopharmaceutical that treats bone metastases in mCRPC approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). "PEACE III is the first major Phase III trial to combine an ARPI with radiopharmaceutical that showed statistical significance in meeting the primary endpoint," said Denis Lacombe, Chief Executive Officer, EORTC. "The EORTC is proud to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking trial, helping to redefine the development of clinical trials and supporting patient care for difficult to treat diseases." The results were consistent with the established safety profile of XOFIGO, although authors noted the importance of administering bone protective agents (BPAs) to avoid fractures. Following the release of the ERA-223 results, the PEACE III study was amended in March 2018 making BPAs mandatory at the monthly skeletal-related-event dose. The observed reduction in fractures following this amendment underlined the importance of using a BPA in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and bone metastasis also in the era of ARPI's.4 Grade 3 or higher treatment emergent adverse events (TEAE) were recorded in 65.6% of patients in the combination arm compared to 55.8% of patients who received enzalutamide alone.1 The most frequent Grade 3 or higher TEAEs were hypertension (34%), fatigue (6%), fracture (5%), anemia (5%), and neutropenia (5%).1 Fractures (either treatment-emergent or post-treatment, symptomatic or pathologic, or with or without BPA use) were reported in 24.3% of patients in the combination arm and 13.4% of patients in the enzalutamide arm.1 These results demonstrate the potential for this combination to be a new treatment option for patients with mCRPC and bone metastases who have experienced disease progression on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). "There remains an unmet patient need for people living with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer who have bone metastases," said Christine Roth, Global Head of Product Strategy and Commercialization at Bayer's Pharmaceuticals Division. "The PEACE III trial underscores our dedication to advancing therapies for patients with prostate cancer and exploring the full potential of XOFIGO." Bayer has submitted a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) to the FDA for XOFIGO for the treatment of patients with mCRPC and who have bone metastases in combination with enzalutamide based on positive results from the Phase III PEACE trial. Bayer will submit applications for marketing authorizations of XOFIGO to additional health authorities as well. The trial is supported by Astellas and Pfizer who manufacture enzalutamide (Xtandi) in collaboration with Bayer. About PEACE III (EORTC GUCG-1333) The PEACE III trial is an international, randomized, open-label, Phase III trial designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of XOFIGO in combination with enzalutamide in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and bone metastases. A total of 446 patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either XOFIGO 55 kBq/kg as an intravenous injection monthly for six cycles in combination with enzalutamide 160mg orally daily or enzalutamide 160mg orally daily. The primary endpoint was radiological progression-free survival (rPFS) by investigator assessment. Key secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), time to subsequent systemic treatment, pain progression, and symptomatic skeletal event. This trial was a collaboration with several cancer cooperative groups: EORTC, CTI, CUOG, LACOG, and GETUG. About Xofigo® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection2 Xofigo is indicated for the treatment of patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, symptomatic bone metastases and no known visceral metastatic disease. Important Safety Information for Xofigo® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection Warnings and Precautions: Bone Marrow Suppression: In the phase 3 ALSYMPCA trial, 2% of patients in theXofigo arm experienced bone marrow failure or ongoing pancytopenia, compared to no patients treated with placebo. There were two deaths due to bone marrow failure. For 7 of 13 patients treated with Xofigo bone marrow failure was ongoing at the time of death. Among the 13 patients who experienced bone marrow failure, 54% required blood transfusions. Four percent (4%) of patients in the Xofigo arm and 2% in the placebo arm permanently discontinued therapy due to bone marrow suppression. In the randomized trial, deaths related to vascular hemorrhage in association with myelosuppression were observed in 1% of Xofigo-treated patients compared to 0.3% of patients treated with placebo. The incidence of infection-related deaths (2%), serious infections (10%), and febrile neutropenia (<1%) was similar for patients treated with Xofigo and placebo. Myelosuppression–notably thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, and leukopenia–has been reported in patients treated with patients with evidence of compromised bone marrow reserve closely and provide supportive care measures when clinically indicated. Discontinue Xofigo in patients who experience life-threatening complications despite supportive care for bone marrow failure Hematological Evaluation: Monitor blood counts at baseline and prior to every dose of Xofigo. Prior to first administering Xofigo, the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be ≥1.5 × 109/L, the platelet count ≥100 × 109/L, and hemoglobin ≥10 g/dL. Prior to subsequent administrations, the ANC should be ≥1 × 109/L and the platelet count ≥50 × 109/L. Discontinue Xofigo if hematologic values do not recover within 6 to 8 weeks after the last administration despite receiving supportive care Concomitant Use With Chemotherapy: Safety and efficacy of concomitantchemotherapy with Xofigo have not been established. Outside of a clinical trial,concomitant use of Xofigo in patients on chemotherapy is not recommended due to the potential for additive myelosuppression. If chemotherapy, other systemic radioisotopes, or hemibody external radiotherapy are administered during the treatment period, Xofigo should be discontinued Increased Fractures and Mortality in Combination With Abiraterone Plus Prednisone/Prednisolone: Xofigo is not recommended for use in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone outside of clinical trials. At the primary analysis of the Phase 3 ERA-223 study that evaluated concurrent initiation of Xofigo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone in 806 asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic mCRPC patients, an increased incidence of fractures (28.6% vs 11.4%) and deaths (38.5% vs 35.5%) have been observed in patients who received Xofigo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone compared to patients who received placebo in combination with abiraterone acetate plus prednisone/prednisolone. Safety and efficacy with the combination of Xofigo and agents other than gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues have not been established Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: The safety and efficacy of Xofigo have not been established in females. Xofigo can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant female. Advise pregnant females and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise male patients to use condoms and their female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during and for 6 months after completing treatment with Xofigo Administration and Radiation Protection: Xofigo should be received, used, and administered only by authorized persons in designated clinical settings. The administration of Xofigo is associated with potential risks to other persons from radiation or contamination from spills of bodily fluids such as urine, feces, or vomit. Therefore, radiation protection precautions must be taken in accordance with national and local regulations Fluid Status: Dehydration occurred in 3% of patients on Xofigo and 1% of patients on placebo. Xofigo increases adverse reactions such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, which may result in dehydration. Monitor patients' oral intake and fluid status carefully and promptly treat patients who display signs or symptoms of dehydration or hypovolemia Injection Site Reactions: Erythema, pain, and edema at the injection site were reported in 1% of patients on Xofigo Secondary Malignant Neoplasms: Xofigo contributes to a patient's overall long-term cumulative radiation exposure. Long-term cumulative radiation exposure may be associated with an increased risk of cancer and hereditary defects. Due to its mechanism of action and neoplastic changes, including osteosarcomas, in rats following administration of radium-223 dichloride, Xofigo may increase the risk of osteosarcoma or other secondary malignant neoplasms. However, the overall incidence of new malignancies in the randomized trial was lower on the Xofigo arm compared to placebo (<1% vs 2%; respectively), but the expected latency period for the development of secondary malignancies exceeds the duration of follow-up for patients on the trial Subsequent Treatment With Cytotoxic Chemotherapy: In the randomized clinical trial, 16% of patients in the Xofigo group and 18% of patients in the placebo group received cytotoxic chemotherapy after completion of study treatments. Adequate safety monitoring and laboratory testing was not performed to assess how patients treated with Xofigo will tolerate subsequent cytotoxic chemotherapy Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) in the Xofigo arm vs the placebo arm, respectively, were nausea (36% vs 35%), diarrhea (25% vs 15%), vomiting (19% vs 14%), and peripheral edema (13% vs 10%). Grade 3 and 4 adverse events were reported in 57% of Xofigo-treated patients and 63% of placebo-treated patients. The most common hematologic laboratory abnormalities in the Xofigo arm (≥10%) vs the placebo arm, respectively, were anemia (93% vs 88%), lymphocytopenia (72% vs 53%), leukopenia (35% vs 10%), thrombocytopenia (31% vs 22%), and neutropenia (18% vs 5%). Please see the full Prescribing Information for Xofigo (radium Ra 223 dichloride). About Oncology at Bayer Bayer is committed to delivering science for a better life by advancing a portfolio of innovative treatments. The oncology franchise at Bayer includes six marketed products and several other assets in various stages of clinical development. Together, these products reflect the company's approach to research, which prioritizes targets and pathways with the potential to impact the way that cancer is treated. About Bayer Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. In line with its mission, "Health for all, Hunger for none," the company's products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2023, the Group employed around 100,000 people and had sales of 47.6 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 5.8 billion euros. For more information, go to © 2025 BayerBAYER, the Bayer Cross and XOFIGO are registered trademarks of Bayer. Find more information at Our online press service is just a click away: Follow us on Facebook: Follow us on X: Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer's public reports which are available on the Bayer website at The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments. References Tombal. B., et al. Enzalutamide plus Radium-223 in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: Results of the EORTC 1333/PEACE-3 trial. Annals of Oncology. May 30, 2025. DOI: 10.1016/ Gillessen, S., et al. A randomized multicenter open label phase III trial comparing enzalutamide vs a combination of Radium-223 (Ra223) and enzalutamide in asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic patients with bone metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC): First results of EORTC-GUCG 1333/PEACE-3. European Society of Medical Oncology 2025 (ESMO) LBA1. September 9, 2024. Xofigo® (radium-223 dichloride) Injection [Prescribing Information]. Whippany, NJ: Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, December 2019. Gillessen S, et al. Decrease in Fracture Rate with Mandatory Bone-protecting Agents in the EORTC 1333/PEACE-3 Trial Comparing Radium-223 Combined with Enzalutamide Versus Enzalutamide Alone: A Safety Analysis. Eur Urol. 2025 Mar;87(3):285-288. View source version on Contacts Media Contact: Polina Miklush, Tel + 862.431.8817Email:
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
IMUNON Invited to Present Translational Data in Supporting Remarkable Phase 2 Ovarian Cancer Survival Results at ESMO Gynaecological Cancers Congress 2025
Presentation at ESMO will follow oral 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting presentation highlighting unprecedented survival data from Phase 2 OVATION 2 Study of IMNN-001 Simultaneously publication in leading peer-reviewed journal Gynecologic Oncology details IMNN-001's outstanding safety and efficacy across multiple analyses and subgroups Treatment with IMNN-001 could represent new promise for estimated 40,000 women newly diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer yearly in EU and 300,000 globally LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J., May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IMUNON, Inc. (NASDAQ: IMNN), a clinical-stage company in Phase 3 development of its DNA-mediated immunotherapy, today announced that an abstract highlighting IMNN-001 data based on an immune biomarker analysis from the Phase 2 OVATION 2 Study in women with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer was accepted for poster presentation at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Gynaecological Cancers Congress 2025, being held June 19-21, 2025 in Vienna, Austria. The abstract, titled 'Immune biomarker analysis of the OVATION-2 trial, a randomized Phase I/II study of IL-12 gene therapy IMNN-001 in combination with Neo/Adjuvant Chemotherapy (NACT) in newly-diagnosed advanced Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC),' will be presented by Premal H. Thaker, M.D., Interim Chief of Gynecologic Oncology, David & Lynn Mutch Distinguished Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Director of Gynecologic Oncology Clinical Research at Washington University School of Medicine, OVATION 2 Study Chair and Study Chair of the Phase 3 OVATION 3 trial. IMUNON also recently announced that new positive data from the OVATION 2 Study will be highlighted in an oral presentation at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting and simultaneously published in the peer-reviewed journal Gynecologic Oncology. Results include continuous clinically significant improvement in the IMNN-001 treatment group, with median 13-month and 3-month increases in overall and progression-free survival, respectively. IMNN-001, based on IMUNON's proprietary TheraPlas® technology platform, is an interleukin-12 (IL-12) DNA plasmid vector encased in a nanoparticle delivery system, enabling cell transfection followed by persistent, local production and secretion of the IL-12 protein in the tumor microenvironment. IL-12 is a powerful pluripotent cytokine known for inducing strong anti-cancer immunity by promoting T-lymphocyte and natural killer cell proliferation while inhibiting tumor-mediated immune suppression. IMNN-001 is the first and only IL-12 immunotherapy to achieve a clinically effective response including overall survival benefit in frontline treatment in patients with advanced (stage III/IV) ovarian cancer. 'We are very pleased to be invited to present OVATION 2 biomarker analysis data at ESMO's Gynaecological Cancers Congress, especially in light of the remarkable IMNN-001 survival data that we reported from the study, which are being presented at the ASCO Annual Meeting and in the journal Gynecologic Oncology,' said Stacy Lindborg, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of IMUNON. 'It is highly encouraging to see the global scientific community's strong interest in our promising and novel IMNN-001 immunotherapy including enthusiasm from leading researchers from the European Union and Latin America in participating in our pivotal Phase 3 trial. There is a significant opportunity to improve the standard of care for thousands of women diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer, and we look forward to advancing this program in our Phase 3 trial and positioning IMNN-001 for regulatory review in the European Union and markets around the world.' The pivotal Phase 3 OVATION 3 Study of IMNN-001 will include women with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer (stage IIIC or IV) who are eligible for neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy (N/ACT) (the ITT population), with a sub-group of HRD+ women including those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Study participants will be randomized 1:1 to receive either IMNN-001 plus standard of care N/ACT or standard of care N/ACT alone. The primary endpoint of the study is overall survival, and secondary endpoints are surgical response score, chemotherapy response score, clinical response and time to second-line treatment. The study will also assess several exploratory endpoints. IMUNON recently initiated the first two sites for the OVATION 3 Study. About the Phase 2 OVATION 2 Study OVATION 2 evaluated the dosing, safety, efficacy and biological activity of intraperitoneal administration of IMNN-001 in combination with neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy (N/ACT) of paclitaxel and carboplatin in patients newly diagnosed with advanced epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer. Treatment in the neoadjuvant period is designed to shrink the tumors as much as possible for optimal surgical removal after three cycles of chemotherapy. Following N/ACT, patients undergo interval debulking surgery, followed by three additional cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy to treat any residual tumor. This open-label study enrolled 112 patients who were randomized 1:1 and evaluated for safety and efficacy to compare N/ACT plus IMNN-001 versus standard-of-care N/ACT. In accordance with the study protocol, patients randomized to the IMNN-001 treatment arm could receive up to 17 weekly doses of 100 mg/m2 in addition to N/ACT. As a Phase 2 study, OVATION 2 was not powered for statistical significance. Additional endpoints included objective response rate, chemotherapy response score and surgical response. About IMNN-001 Immunotherapy Designed using IMUNON's proprietary TheraPlas® platform technology, IMNN-001 is an IL-12 DNA plasmid vector encased in a nanoparticle delivery system that enables cell transfection followed by persistent, local secretion of the IL-12 protein. IL-12 is one of the most active cytokines for the induction of potent anticancer immunity acting through the induction of T-lymphocyte and natural killer cell proliferation. IMUNON previously reported positive safety and encouraging Phase 1 results with IMNN-001 administered as monotherapy or as combination therapy in patients with advanced peritoneally metastasized primary or recurrent ovarian cancer and completed a Phase 1b dose-escalation trial (the OVATION 1 Study) of IMNN-001 in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel in patients with newly diagnosed ovarian cancer. IMUNON previously reported positive results from the recently completed Phase 2 OVATION 2 Study, which assessed IMNN-001 (100 mg/m2 administered intraperitoneally weekly) plus neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy (N/ACT) of paclitaxel and carboplatin compared to standard-of-care N/ACT alone in 112 patients with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer. About Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Epithelial ovarian cancer is the sixth deadliest malignancy among women in the U.S. There are approximately 20,000 new cases of ovarian cancer every year and approximately 70% are diagnosed in advanced Stage III/IV. Epithelial ovarian cancer is characterized by dissemination of tumors in the peritoneal cavity with a high risk of recurrence (75%, Stage III/IV) after surgery and chemotherapy. Since the five-year survival rates of patients with Stage III/IV disease at diagnosis are poor (41% and 20%, respectively), there remains a need for a therapy that not only reduces the recurrence rate but also improves overall survival. The peritoneal cavity of advanced ovarian cancer patients contains the primary tumor environment and is an attractive target for a regional approach to immune modulation. About IMUNON IMUNON is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on advancing a portfolio of innovative treatments that harness the body's natural mechanisms to generate safe, effective and durable responses across a broad array of human diseases, constituting a differentiating approach from conventional therapies. IMUNON is developing its non-viral DNA technology across its modalities. The first modality, TheraPlas®, is developed for the gene-based delivery of cytokines and other therapeutic proteins in the treatment of solid tumors where an immunological approach is deemed promising. The second modality, PlaCCine®, is developed for the gene delivery of viral antigens that can elicit a strong immunological response. The Company's lead clinical program, IMNN-001, is a DNA-based immunotherapy for the localized treatment of advanced ovarian cancer that has completed multiple clinical trials including one Phase 2 clinical trial (OVATION 2). IMNN-001 works by instructing the body to produce safe and durable levels of powerful cancer-fighting molecules, such as interleukin-12 and interferon gamma, at the tumor site. Additionally, the Company has completed dosing in a first-in-human study of its COVID-19 booster vaccine (IMNN-101). The Company will continue to leverage these modalities and to advance, either directly or through partnership, the technological frontier of plasmid DNA to better serve patients with difficult-to-treat conditions. For more information, please visit Forward-Looking Statements IMUNON wishes to inform readers that forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the 'safe harbor' provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the timing and enrollment of the Company's clinical trials, the potential of any therapies developed by the Company to fulfill unmet medical needs, the market potential for the Company's products, if approved, the potential efficacy and safety profile of our product candidates, and the Company's plans and expectations with respect to its development programs more generally, are forward-looking statements. We generally identify forward-looking statements by using words such as 'may,' 'will,' 'expect,' 'plan,' 'anticipate,' 'estimate,' 'intend' and similar expressions (as well as other words or expressions referencing future events, conditions or circumstances). Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, uncertainties relating to unforeseen changes in the course of research and development activities and in clinical trials, including the fact that interim results are not necessarily indicative of final results; the uncertainties of and difficulties in analyzing interim clinical data; the significant expense, time and risk of failure in conducting clinical trials; the need for IMUNON to evaluate its future development plans; possible actions by customers, suppliers, competitors or regulatory authorities; and other risks detailed from time to time in IMUNON's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. IMUNON assumes no obligation, except to the extent required by law, to update or supplement forward-looking statements that become untrue because of subsequent events, new information or otherwise. Contacts: Media Investors Jenna Urban Peter Vozzo CG life ICR Healthcare 212-253-8881 443-213-0505 jurban@ in to access your portfolio
Medscape
20-05-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Does Weight Gain After Breast Cancer Affect Outcome?
Women who gain a more substantial amount of weight after being diagnosed with breast cancer face an increased risk of dying from the disease, according to findings from a new study. However, that higher mortality risk only appears to apply to women who are overweight or at a healthy weight before diagnosis, not to those who are obese prediagnosis, explained lead study author Sixten Harborg, MD, PhD, with Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark, who presented the findings at European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Breast Cancer 2025. Obesity at breast cancer diagnosis is associated with dismal prognosis, but the effect of postdiagnosis weight change remains underinvestigated and 'the evidence is inconclusive,' Harborg told attendees. The researchers set out to identify weight gain thresholds associated with breast cancer mortality using the prospective Nurses' Health Study. Harborg and colleagues focused on a subpopulation of 6803 women with nonmetastatic breast cancer and calculated the relative weight change from prediagnosis and postdiagnosis weight records as percentage of weight change from the last reported prediagnosis weight to the first postdiagnosis weight. Weight change was classified as stable weight (−2% to +2%), moderate weight loss (−2% to −5%), major weight loss (< −5%), moderate weight gain (+2% to +5%), and major weight gain (> +5%). Overall, 1179 women died of breast cancer during a median follow-up of 8.5 years. Compared with women with stable weight after diagnosis, women with major weight gain had an increased risk for breast-cancer mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.26). The increased risk associated with major weight gain after diagnosis was observed in women with healthy weight or overweight before diagnosis (aHR, 1.32 and 1.37, respectively) but not in those with obesity before diagnosis (aHR, 1.01). There was also a trend towards increased breast cancer mortality in women with major weight loss, although this was not statistically significant (aHR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.96-1.34), and moderate weight gain or loss was not associated with increased mortality risk. Those who are overweight or a healthy weight at diagnosis seem to be most affected by weight gain post-diagnosis, Harborg concluded. Invited discussant for the study, Hope Rugo, MD, with University of California San Francisco Comprehensive Cancer Center, said the effect of weight gain on breast cancer mortality is 'fascinating.' That the risk was seen only in women at a healthy weight or overweight at diagnosis is 'presumably because those who are obese at the start already have a higher risk of mortality from breast cancer,' said Rugo. Rugo noted that in a recent meta-analysis of 64 studies looking at weight change in relation to breast cancer prognosis, higher postdiagnosis body mass index (BMI) was associated with an increased all-cause mortality, breast cancer–specific mortality, and second primary breast cancer. So, what can be done? 'The BWEL trial stands out as a trial that may help us understand what the benefit of weight loss [is],' Rugo told attendees. That trial enrolled more than 3100 overweight or obese women (BMI ≥ 27) with stages II-III breast cancer diagnosed within the past 14 months who had completed treatment. The study team showed that a telephone-based weight loss intervention led to clinically meaningful weight loss and sustained weight loss over 12 months, which was associated with improved metabolic markers and insulin resistance. Rugo also noted that in the Prospective Studies of Diet and Cancer study, compared with stable weight, sustained weight loss, even modest amounts, was associated with a lower risk of developing breast cancer for women aged 50 years or older. 'We still don't know what weight loss does,' she concluded. But 'we know that prevention of weight gain is better, and we will look to the BWEL study over time, as well as exercise intervention studies that are ongoing for more insights.'
