Astellas reports positive trial data for renal cell carcinoma drug

Astellas Pharma has published positive data from a new clinical trial of tivozanib, the advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) treatment it has developed alongside Aveo Oncology.

Results from the Tivo-1 study will be presented at next month's American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting, showing the treatment's ability to deliver better progression-free survival rates than an approved alternative.

This represents the first time an investigational agent has demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful survival superiority versus an established targeted agent in advanced RCC.

It will support Astellas and Aveo as they press ahead with their efforts to commercialise the promising new therapy option.

Dr Steven Ryder, president for global development at Astellas Pharma, said: "This data further supports Astellas' goal of leadership in oncology and our commitment to developing a world-class oncology platform based on innovative, research-driven solutions and dynamic partnerships."

Earlier this year, Astellas received a positive recommendation from the All Wales Medicines Strategy Group for its product Qutenza to be used for the treatment of NHS patients with peripheral nerve pain.