Bristol-Myers Squibb wins best biotechnology product prize for Opdivo

Bristol-Myers Squibb has announced that its innovative cancer drug Opdivo has won a prize at the Prix Galien USA 2015 Awards.

The PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor has earned the award for best biotechnology product in recognition of the manufacturer's innovative approach to the scientific discovery and development of the drug.

Opdivo is approved in indications for previously treated metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer and in unresectable or metastatic melanoma and disease progression following treatment with Yervoy.

Winners of these awards are selected by a preeminent scientific committee that includes several Nobel Laureates. The accolades honour outstanding achievements in improving the human condition through the development of innovative therapies.

Francis Cuss, executive vice-president and chief scientific officer of Bristol-Myers Squibb, said: "We are pleased to be acknowledged for our company's scientific contributions to this historic time in cancer research, when the science of immuno-oncology is helping to change expectations in cancer care."

This represents the second award from Prix Galien USA given to Bristol-Myers Squibb's immuno-oncology portfolio, after it previously won the best biotechnology product award for Yervoy in 2012.