Efficacy

Libtayo (Cemiplimab) Efficacy in Lung Cancer

Libtayo (cemiplimab) is a fully human monoclonal antibody designed to block the immune checkpoint receptor PD-1 (programmed death-1) on T-cells. By doing so, it may help the body’s immune system fight cancer cells. In the context of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), Libtayo has been studied for its efficacy in patients with advanced NSCLC with ≥50% PD-L1 expression and who have either progressed on chemotherapy or are chemotherapy-naive. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Libtayo can significantly improve overall survival and progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy. The results from these trials led to the approval of Libtayo for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced NSCLC with high PD-L1 expression.

It is important to note that the efficacy of Libtayo can vary based on the level of PD-L1 expression and the presence of certain genetic mutations. Patients with higher PD-L1 expression tend to respond better to PD-1 inhibitors like Libtayo. However, its efficacy in lung cancer patients with lower PD-L1 expression or those with certain genetic alterations may be less pronounced, and such patients may require alternative or combination therapies.

Retsevmo (Selpercatinib) Efficacy in Lung Cancer

Retsevmo (selpercatinib) is a kinase inhibitor specifically designed to target RET (rearranged during transfection) alterations. RET gene alterations, such as fusions and mutations, are key drivers in various types of cancer, including NSCLC. Selpercatinib has shown significant efficacy in NSCLC patients with RET fusion-positive tumors. Clinical trials have reported high response rates and durable responses in this patient population, leading to the approval of Retsevmo for the treatment of adults with metastatic RET fusion-positive NSCLC.

The efficacy of Retsevmo in lung cancer is particularly notable in patients who have not responded to prior treatments or who have relapsed. The targeted nature of selpercatinib allows for a more precise attack on cancer cells with RET alterations, sparing normal cells and potentially reducing the side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy. As a result, Retsevmo has become a valuable option for patients with RET fusion-positive NSCLC, offering a new line of targeted therapy with promising efficacy.