Efficacy

Efficacy of Cyramza (Ramucirumab) in Lung Cancer

Cyramza (ramucirumab) is a monoclonal antibody that targets the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), which can contribute to the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors, including those in lung cancer. In the context of lung cancer, Cyramza has been evaluated for its efficacy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is specifically indicated for use in combination with docetaxel in patients with metastatic NSCLC whose cancer has progressed during or after platinum-based chemotherapy. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Cyramza, when added to docetaxel, can lead to a modest improvement in overall survival compared to docetaxel alone. This benefit has been observed in a broad patient population, including those with different histologies and prior treatments.

The pivotal trial that led to the approval of Cyramza for this indication was the REVEL study, a phase III randomized, double-blind trial. In this study, patients treated with Cyramza plus docetaxel had a median overall survival of 10.5 months compared to 9.1 months in the placebo plus docetaxel group. Progression-free survival was also improved with Cyramza treatment. These results support the use of Cyramza in combination with docetaxel as a second-line treatment for patients with metastatic NSCLC.

Efficacy of Enhertu (Fam-Trastuzumab Deruxtecan-nxki) in Lung Cancer

Enhertu (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki) is an antibody-drug conjugate composed of a humanized anti-HER2 antibody, a stable linker, and a cytotoxic topoisomerase I inhibitor payload. Enhertu is approved for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, but it has also shown promise in the treatment of HER2-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). HER2 mutations, while less common in lung cancer than in breast cancer, are present in a small percentage of NSCLC tumors and represent a potential therapeutic target.

In clinical trials, Enhertu has demonstrated significant efficacy in patients with HER2-mutant NSCLC. The results from a phase II trial (DESTINY-Lung01) showed that patients with HER2-mutant NSCLC who were treated with Enhertu achieved a notable objective response rate, with many experiencing a reduction in tumor size. The study also reported a median progression-free survival that suggests a durable response in this patient population. These findings are encouraging and suggest that Enhertu could offer a new treatment option for patients with HER2-mutant NSCLC, pending further investigation and regulatory approval for this specific indication.