GlaxoSmithKline starts phase III trial for dabrafenib

GlaxoSmithKline has announced the launch of its Combi-AD phase III study to evaluate the combination of dabrafenib as adjuvant therapy for melanoma.

The pharmaceuticals company will investigate whether mixing two investigational agents can delay or prevent the recurrence of the condition in patients with stage IIIa, IIIb or IIIc BRAF V600E or V600K mutation-positive melanoma that has been removed by surgery.

In addition, the study will evaluate the safety profile of a dabrafenib-trametinib combination in this treatment setting.

The patients including in the trail are at high risk of their melanoma returning after surgery, with few treatment options currently provided by this group.

Commenting on the launch of the trials, Dr Rafael Amado – head of oncology research and development for GlaxoSmithKline – said: "We are investigating whether the combination administered after surgery can help these patients live longer without melanoma recurrence."

Two phase III studies of combined dabrafenib-trametinib are ongoing in the metastatic BRAF V600 melanoma setting.