FDA approves Amgen's Imdelltra for small-cell lung cancer, shows significant tumor shrinkage and longer survival

From CNBC: 2024-05-16 17:47:17

The FDA approved Amgen’s therapy for deadly small-cell lung cancer, allowing patients to use it as a second-line treatment. Trials showed the drug reduces tumor growth and prolongs life significantly. Small-cell lung cancer affects 15% of lung cancer cases globally, with about 35,000 patients in the U.S. alone.

Amgen’s drug, Imdelltra, helps redirect the immune system’s T-cells to kill cancer cells. In trials, 40% of patients had tumor shrinkage with a 10mg dose, and the median survival time was 14.3 months, compared to only six to 12 months with current treatments. Patients see added quality time with loved ones.

Further trials for Imdelltra will test its use as an earlier treatment for small-cell lung cancer. This includes comparing it to chemotherapy as a second-line treatment and starting a phase three study as a first-line treatment for advanced-stage patients. These trials aim to provide more effective options for patients battling this aggressive cancer.



Read more at CNBC: FDA approves Amgen small cell lung cancer treatment