GlaxoSmithKline reports positive data from new melanoma drug trial

GlaxoSmithKline has announced positive data from a phase III clinical trial assessing the potential of a Tafinlar/Mekinist combination in the treatment of melanoma.

Data from the new study has shown the new combination offers progression-free survival benefits compared to Tafinlar alone in the treatment of patients with BRAF V600 E or K mutation positive unresectable or metastatic melanoma.

Results from this trial were consistent with the findings of earlier phase I/II studies and come after the US Food and Drug Administration recently approved the new combination following an accelerated assessment process.

GlaxoSmithKline will publish data from another phase III trial later this year demonstrating the efficacy of the new therapy compared to vemurafenib.

Dr Rafael Amado, senior vice-president for oncology research and development, said the data "will increase the body of evidence on the safety and efficacy of this combination in appropriate patients with melanoma".

This comes after the company recently announced that its new diabetes drug Eperzan has been recommended for EU approval by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use.