From NBC Universal: 2024-06-03 15:01:14

Moderna and Merck released three-year data on their experimental vaccine that, when used in combination with Keytruda, showed improved survival rates for patients with deadly skin cancer. Nearly 75% of patients were alive without signs of cancer returning at the 2½-year mark, compared to 55.6% of patients who only received Keytruda.

The vaccine employs the same mRNA technology as Moderna’s Covid vaccine and is personalized based on tumor analysis. Common side effects included fatigue and injection site pain. Moderna and Merck have received breakthrough therapy designation from the FDA for the vaccine in treating melanoma, aiming for accelerated approval.

The vaccine also reduced the risk of cancer returning or spreading by significant percentages in patients with melanoma. A phase three trial for late-stage melanoma and another trial for lung cancer are currently ongoing. Additionally, trials are being conducted for advanced skin cancer, kidney cancer, and bladder cancer patients.



Read more at NBC Universal: Moderna, Merck cancer vaccine with Keytruda improved survival in trial