Amgen reports positive data from melanoma drug trial

Amgen has announced positive data from a phase III trial of talimogene laherparepvec for the treatment of unresected stage IIIB, IIIC or IV melanoma.

The drug was compared to treatment with subcutaneous granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in the study, which met its primary endpoint be delivering improvements in durable response rates.

A statistically significant difference was observed in the safety and efficacy performance of the new drug, which was being evaluated in a phase III study for the first time.

It could prove to be an important new therapy option for the most aggressive and serious form of skin cancer, which accounts for 75 percent of all skin cancer deaths despite its relative rarity.

Dr Sean Harper, executive vice-president of research and development at Amgen, said: "A high unmet need exists in melanoma and we believe the innovative mechanism of action of talimogene laherparepvec may offer a promising approach for these patients."

This comes after the firm announced a $0.47 (0.31 pounds) per share dividend for the second quarter of 2013 earlier this month.