Merck presents Erbitux efficacy study results

Merck has announced the results of a randomised trial on its drug Erbitux.

Presented at the 2009 Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposiumm, the results were found to “add further evidence” to its enhanced efficacy.

The product is used as a treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) and – in combination with Folfox or Folfiri – was found to provide a response rate of 53 per cent in subjects with KRAS wild-type tumours.

Commenting on the results, lead investigator of the study professor Thomas Brodowicz from the University Hospital of Vienna in Austria, said: “It is really exciting to see such a consistent efficacy profile for Erbitux in patient populations defined by KRAS mutational status.”

He continued the data further highlights the imperativeness to define mCRC, in accordance to the tumour’s KRAS status.

Mr Brodowicz added this was necessary in order to “determine the most effective treatment strategy and to provide patients with the best possible outcomes”.

Last month, Merck announced it had received authorisation to market its drug Kuvan in Europe.

The therapy is used as a treatment for patients with Hyperphenylalaninemia in phenylketonuria.