Efficacy

Portrazza (Necitumumab) Efficacy in Lung Cancer

Portrazza (necitumumab) is a monoclonal antibody used for the treatment of metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is often overexpressed in squamous NSCLC cells. The efficacy of necitumumab was evaluated in a pivotal phase III clinical trial known as SQUIRE. The study compared necitumumab in combination with chemotherapy (gemcitabine and cisplatin) to chemotherapy alone in patients with advanced squamous NSCLC. The results demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in overall survival for patients receiving necitumumab in addition to chemotherapy, with a median survival of 11.5 months compared to 9.9 months in the chemotherapy-only group.

However, it is important to note that the addition of necitumumab also led to an increase in certain side effects. Therefore, while Portrazza has shown efficacy in extending overall survival in the studied population, its use must be carefully considered against the potential for increased toxicity. Portrazza is specifically indicated for first-line treatment in combination with chemotherapy for patients with metastatic squamous NSCLC and is not indicated for other types of lung cancer.

Alunbrig (Brigatinib) Efficacy in Lung Cancer

Alunbrig (brigatinib) is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) approved for the treatment of anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive (ALK+) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients who have progressed on or are intolerant to crizotinib. Brigatinib has shown high efficacy in patients with ALK+ NSCLC, with a response rate significantly higher than what is typically observed with chemotherapy in this patient population. In the ALTA trial, brigatinib demonstrated an objective response rate (ORR) of 45% in patients previously treated with crizotinib. Additionally, the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 16.7 months, which is notable given that these patients had already progressed on prior ALK inhibitors.

Brigatinib also has activity in the central nervous system (CNS), which is particularly important as the brain is a common site for metastasis in ALK+ NSCLC. The intracranial ORR in the ALTA trial was 67% among patients with measurable brain metastases. Given these results, Alunbrig is considered an effective treatment option for patients with ALK+ NSCLC, especially for those who have failed previous ALK inhibitor therapy. Its efficacy in both systemic and CNS disease makes it a valuable agent in the management of this specific subtype of lung cancer.