A new triple-drug combination is showing promise in extending the lives of breast cancer patients without disease progression. The treatment, involving palbociclib, inavolisib, and fulvestrant, has been hailed as potentially transformative, offering new hope for those battling this difficult type of cancer. The research suggests the drug combo could potentially double the time breast cancer patients live without disease progression.
Study Details and Results
The trial involved 325 patients across 28 countries, many with cancer spread to multiple organs and most having undergone chemotherapy. Of these, 161 patients received the triple-drug combination: palbociclib, which blocks cancer growth; inavolisib, a novel drug; and fulvestrant, a hormone therapy targeting key pathways in breast cancer linked to PIK3CA gene mutations. The control group of 164 patients received a placebo with palbociclib and fulvestrant.
The results showed a significant improvement in progression-free survival for the triple-drug regimen. Patients on the new combination saw an average of 15 months before their disease worsened, compared to just 7.3 months for the placebo group. After 18 months, 46.2% of those on the triple-drug combination had no disease progression, versus only 21.1% receiving the placebo.
Expert Commentary
Lead researcher Nick Turner, professor of molecular oncology at the Institute of Cancer Research, London, stated, "The results show the combination significantly improves progression-free survival when given as a first treatment. It is a huge breakthrough. It could represent a transformative advance for people with this type of breast cancer." ICR chief executive Prof Kristian Helin hailed the research as "very encouraging."
Context and Current Treatment Landscape
Every year, more than 56,000 new cases of breast cancer are registered in the UK, with nearly 11,500 deaths. Approximately 70% of cases are diagnosed as HR+/HER2- breast cancer, the specific subtype targeted by these drugs. Since 2022, the combination of palbociclib and fulvestrant has been available for certain breast cancer cases through the NHS, but the full triple-drug cocktail is not yet available in the UK, despite approval in the US. Prof Turner noted, "This new combination helps prevent the cancer becoming resistant to therapy."
Patient Experience
Anne Lury, 53, a participant in the Royal Marsden's trial, shared her experience: "Aside from fatigue, I had minimal side effects. Although I'm now on other treatment, I wouldn't be here if I hadn't had the opportunity to join the trial."
