Celgene reports positive data from myeloma drug trial

Celgene has announced new data from a clinical trial assessing pomalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone for the treatment of relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma.

Results from the phase III multi-centre open-label study showed that the combination therapy was able to deliver superior progression-free survival rates compared to high-dose dexamethasone alone.

An interim analysis of results showed that the treatment also crossed the superiority boundary for overall survival, a key secondary endpoint in the trial.

Celgene submitted a European marketing authorisation application for this new therapy in May 2012, with a final regulatory decision expected in the second half of 2013.

Dr Jesus San Miguel, head of the department of haematology at the University of Salamanca, said: "The continued progress of new agents in this area of disease, particularly in later-stage patients is critical as we look to extend remissions and survival for these individuals."

This comes in the same week that the firm reported data showing the benefits its drug Abraxane can offer for advanced melanoma patients compared to standard chemotherapy.