Merck Sharp and Dohme study shows benefits of Keytruda for NSCLC

Merck Sharp and Dohme has announced the findings of a new clinical trial showing the effectiveness of Keytruda in the treatment of lung cancer.

Data from the phase III KEYNOTE-042 study showed that the anti-PD-1 therapy, when used as a monotherapy for the first-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) met its primary endpoint of overall survival.

An interim analysis conducted by the independent data monitoring committee demonstrated that treatment with Keytruda resulted in significantly longer overall survival than platinum-based chemotherapy, while its safety profile was consistent with previous studies.

The trial will continue to evaluate progression-free survival, which is a secondary endpoint. Results from KEYNOTE-042 will be presented at an upcoming medical meeting and submitted to regulatory authorities worldwide.

Dr Roger Perlmutter, president of Merck Research Laboratories, said: "Keytruda is a foundational treatment for NSCLC and has consistently demonstrated a survival benefit as monotherapy, or in combination with chemotherapy, in the treatment of metastatic lung cancer."

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