Pfizer voices delight in drug trial outcome

Pfizer is delighted with the outcome of a phase III clinical trial for a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours drug.

An independent data monitoring committee recommended that the study was stopped early as the medication Sutent (sunitinib malate) showed significant benefits in sufferers of an advanced pancreatic islet cell tumour.

Dr Mace Rothenberg, senior vice-president of medical development and clinical affairs at the company’s oncology business unit, remarked he was pleased that the study had shown it could be successful in treating the rare cancer, which has previously had limited remedy options.

He commented: “These and previously reported phase II data contribute to the growing body of evidence indicating activity with sunitinib in patients with pancreatic islet cell tumors.”

Earlier this month, Pfizer announced it would be working with Bausch and Lomb to co-promote a number of products from both firms’ portfolios to aid ophthalmic conditions.

The five-year agreement includes the former’s treatment Xalatan (latanoprost ophthalmic solution).

Founded in 1849, the company now employs around 81,900 in over 150 countries worldwide.