Pfizer and Astellas Pharma have reported compelling long-term follow-up data from their Phase 3 EV-302 clinical trial, showcasing sustained benefits of combining PADCEV (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv) with KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) in previously untreated locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer (la/mUC) patients.
Significant Survival Advantage
The latest analysis, following an additional 12 months of follow-up, demonstrates that patients receiving the combination therapy experienced a median overall survival of 33.8 months, compared to 15.9 months in the chemotherapy group. This represents a 49% reduction in mortality risk (HR = 0.51, 95% CI), marking a significant advancement in the treatment landscape for advanced urothelial cancer.
Robust Progression-Free Survival
The combination therapy also demonstrated superior efficacy in preventing disease progression, with a median progression-free survival of 12.5 months versus 6.3 months for chemotherapy patients. This represents a 52% reduction in the risk of disease progression or death, highlighting the combination's potential as a new standard of care for la/mUC.
Comprehensive Efficacy Across Patient Populations
Notably, the survival benefit was consistent across all prespecified subgroups, including both cisplatin-eligible and ineligible patients. This broad efficacy profile addresses an important clinical need, as cisplatin ineligibility often limits treatment options for many urothelial cancer patients.
Treatment Safety Profile
The extended follow-up period revealed no new safety concerns, with the combination's safety profile remaining consistent with previous observations. This stability in the safety data provides additional confidence for healthcare providers considering this treatment option for their patients.
Therapeutic Mechanism
The combination pairs PADCEV, a Nectin-4 directed antibody-drug conjugate, with KEYTRUDA, a PD-1 inhibitor, creating a dual-action approach against advanced urothelial cancer. This novel combination represents a shift from traditional chemotherapy-based approaches, offering a more targeted treatment strategy.
