IMFINZI® (durvalumab) plus IMJUDO® (tremelimumab-actl) demonstrated unprecedented overall survival in advanced liver cancer with one in five patients surviving five years in HIMALAYA Phase III trial

Rhea-AI Impact

(Neutral)

Rhea-AI Sentiment

(Negative)

Insights

This update from the HIMALAYA Phase III trial demonstrates a significant advancement in treating advanced liver cancer. The STRIDE regimen (IMFINZI plus IMJUDO) showed a 24% reduction in death risk compared to sorafenib at 5 years. Notably, 19.6% of STRIDE-treated patients survived to 5 years, doubling the survival rate of sorafenib (9.4%).

The subgroup analysis reveals even more promising results for patients achieving disease control, with 28.7% 5-year survival for STRIDE vs 12.7% for sorafenib. The depth of response analysis further supports STRIDE's efficacy, showing more patients experiencing deep responses leading to longer survival.

This data sets a new benchmark in advanced liver cancer treatment, potentially changing the standard of care and offering hope for improved long-term outcomes in this challenging disease.

The HIMALAYA trial results are groundbreaking in the field of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. The 5-year follow-up data provides important insights into long-term efficacy, which is rare in advanced liver cancer studies. The STRIDE regimen's ability to double the 5-year survival rate compared to sorafenib is a significant milestone.

The depth of response (DpR) analysis is particularly intriguing. Patients with DpR >75% showed a remarkable 72.7% 5-year survival rate with STRIDE, compared to 33.3% with sorafenib. This suggests that achieving a deep response could be a strong predictor of long-term survival in HCC patients.

While the improved efficacy is clear, it's important to note the slightly higher rate of serious treatment-related adverse events with STRIDE (17.5% vs 9.9%). However, no new safety signals emerged with longer follow-up, which is reassuring for long-term use.

The HIMALAYA trial results present a significant opportunity for AstraZeneca in the lucrative liver cancer market. With IMFINZI plus IMJUDO (STRIDE regimen) demonstrating superior long-term survival rates, AstraZeneca is well-positioned to capture market share from established treatments like sorafenib.

The doubling of 5-year survival rates is a compelling selling point that could drive rapid adoption among oncologists and patients. This could potentially translate to increased sales and market penetration for AstraZeneca's oncology portfolio.

Moreover, the approval of this combination therapy in multiple regions (US, EU, Japan) provides a broad geographical base for revenue growth. The strong efficacy data may also support premium pricing, potentially boosting profit margins.

Investors should note that while these results are promising, the slightly higher rate of serious adverse events may require careful monitoring of post-marketing safety data to ensure continued regulatory support and market acceptance.

09/16/2024 - 07:00 AM

Longest survival follow-up ever reported for a Phase III immunotherapy trial in this setting

WILMINGTON, Del.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Updated results from the HIMALAYA Phase III trial showed AstraZeneca’s IMFINZI^®(durvalumab) plus IMJUDO^® (tremelimumab-actl) demonstrated a sustained, clinically meaningful overall survival (OS) benefit at five years for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who had not received prior systemic therapy and were not eligible for localized treatment.

These results from HIMALAYA will be presented today at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress 2024 in Barcelona, Spain (presentation 947MO).

At five years of follow-up, this latest exploratory analysis showed that a single priming dose of IMJUDO added to IMFINZI, called the STRIDE regimen (Single Tremelimumab-actl Regular Interval Durvalumab), reduced the risk of death by 24% compared to sorafenib (based on a hazard ratio [HR] of 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65-0.89). An estimated 19.6% of patients treated with the STRIDE regimen were alive at five years versus 9.4% for those treated with sorafenib.

In a subgroup analysis of patients in the trial who achieved disease control, defined as complete or partial response or stable disease, 28.7% of those treated with the STRIDE regimen were alive at five years versus 12.7% of patients treated with sorafenib. In addition, an exploratory analysis of depth of response (DpR) showed that more patients treated with the STRIDE regimen experienced deep responses leading to longer survival compared to sorafenib.

Lorenza Rimassa, MD, Associate Professor of Medical Oncology, Humanitas University and IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy and a lead investigator in the HIMALAYA trial, said: “Treatment with durvalumab plus tremelimumab-actl for patients with advanced liver cancer doubled the overall survival rate at five years, a significant survival advantage over sorafenib that has also become even more pronounced over time. These data reinforce the use of this novel dual immunotherapy regimen and are an important milestone for patients with this devastating disease.”

Sarah Manes, Liver Cancers Program Director at Global Liver Institute, said: “Reaching the five-year survival milestone is both clinically significant and emotionally meaningful for people with advanced liver cancer and their families. We are thrilled to see this progress in improving outcomes with new treatment options, bringing new hope for long-term survivorship to patients in our community.”

Susan Galbraith, Executive Vice President, Oncology R&D, AstraZeneca, said: “It is remarkable to see nearly 20 percent of patients with advanced liver cancer treated with the STRIDE regimen alive at five years compared to only about seven percent of patients living that long historically. This is a major step forward, setting a new survival benchmark. This underscores our commitment to following patients for the long term to help us better characterize the enduring clinical benefits of this innovative priming approach with an anti-CTLA-4 antibody added to PD-L1 blockade.”

Summary of updated survival results: HIMALAYA

OS^{i, ii}	STRIDE (n=393)	Sorafenib (n=389)
Median duration of follow-up, in months (95% CI)	62.5 (59.5, 64.8)	59.9 (58.3, 61.5)
OS HR (95% CI)	0.76 (0.65-0.89)
p-value (2-sided)ⁱⁱⁱ	0.0008
OS rate^iv at 60 months (95% CI), %	19.6	9.4
DC at 60 months

Number of patients	43	17

OS rate, %	28.7	12.7
DpR^v >75% at 60 months

Number of patients	27	3

OS rate^iv, %	72.7	33.3
DpR^v >50% - ≤75% at 60 months

Number of patients	34	12

OS rate^iv, %	57.8	32.1
i. Updated analysis data cut-off: 01 March 2024, with 82% OS data maturity
ii. OS HRs and 95% CIs were calculated using a Cox proportional hazards model adjusting for treatment, aetiology, ECOG performance status, and macrovascular invasion
iii. Nominal p-value
iv. OS rates at 60 months were estimated using Kaplan-Meier method
v. DpR represents the percentage of tumor shrinkage from baseline observed at the time of best objective response evaluation

The safety profile of the STRIDE regimen was consistent with the known profiles of each medicine, and no new safety signals were observed with longer follow-up. Serious treatment-related adverse events, defined as Grade 3 or 4 and including death, were experienced by 17.5% of patients treated with the STRIDE regimen versus 9.9% of patients treated with sorafenib, with no new events occurring after the primary analysis for STRIDE.

IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO is approved for the treatment of adults with advanced or unresectable HCC in the US, EU (in the 1st-line setting), Japan and several other countries. IMFINZI monotherapy is also approved in Japan in this setting.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

There are no contraindications for IMFINZI^® (durvalumab) or IMJUDO^® (tremelimumab-actl).

Severe and Fatal Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions
Important immune-mediated adverse reactions listed under Warnings and Precautions may not include all possible severe and fatal immune-mediated reactions. Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue. Immune-mediated adverse reactions can occur at any time after starting treatment or after discontinuation. Monitor patients closely for symptoms and signs that may be clinical manifestations of underlying immune-mediated adverse reactions. Evaluate clinical chemistries including liver enzymes, creatinine, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level, and thyroid function at baseline and before each dose. In cases of suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, initiate appropriate workup to exclude alternative etiologies, including infection. Institute medical management promptly, including specialty consultation as appropriate. Withhold or permanently discontinue IMFINZI and IMJUDO depending on severity. See USPI Dosing and Administration for specific details. In general, if IMFINZI and IMJUDO requires interruption or discontinuation, administer systemic corticosteroid therapy (1 mg to 2 mg/kg/day prednisone or equivalent) until improvement to Grade 1 or less. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Consider administration of other systemic immunosuppressants in patients whose immune-mediated adverse reactions are not controlled with corticosteroid therapy.

Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis
IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis, which may be fatal. The incidence of pneumonitis is higher in patients who have received prior thoracic radiation.

IMFINZI as a Single Agent
- In patients who did not receive recent prior radiation, the incidence of immune-mediated pneumonitis was 2.4% (34/1414), including fatal (<0.1%), and Grade 3-4 (0.4%) adverse reactions. In patients who received recent prior radiation, the incidence of pneumonitis (including radiation pneumonitis) in patients with unresectable Stage III NSCLC following definitive chemoradiation within 42 days prior to initiation of IMFINZI in PACIFIC was 18.3% (87/475) in patients receiving IMFINZI and 12.8% (30/234) in patients receiving placebo. Of the patients who received IMFINZI (475), 1.1% were fatal and 2.7% were Grade 3 adverse reactions.
- The frequency and severity of immune-mediated pneumonitis in patients who did not receive definitive chemoradiation prior to IMFINZI were similar in patients who received IMFINZI as a single agent or with ES-SCLC or BTC when given in combination with chemotherapy.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO
- Immune‑mediated pneumonitis occurred in 1.3% (5/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including fatal (0.3%) and Grade 3 (0.2%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
- Immune‑mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.5% (21/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including fatal (0.5%) and Grade 3 (1%) adverse reactions.

Immune-Mediated Colitis
IMFINZI with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy can cause immune-mediated colitis, which may be fatal.

IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated colitis that is frequently associated with diarrhea. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection/reactivation has been reported in patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune-mediated colitis. In cases of corticosteroid-refractory colitis, consider repeating infectious workup to exclude alternative etiologies.

IMFINZI as a Single Agent
- Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 2% (37/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 4 (<0.1%) and Grade 3 (0.4%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO
- Immune‑mediated colitis or diarrhea occurred in 6% (23/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 3 (3.6%) adverse reactions. Intestinal perforation has been observed in other studies of IMFINZI and IMJUDO.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
- Immune-mediated colitis occurred in 6.5% (39/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy including fatal (0.2%) and Grade 3 (2.5%) adverse reactions. Intestinal perforation and large intestine perforation were reported in 0.1% of patients.

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis
IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated hepatitis, which may be fatal.

IMFINZI as a Single Agent
- Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 2.8% (52/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including fatal (0.2%), Grade 4 (0.3%) and Grade 3 (1.4%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO
- Immune‑mediated hepatitis occurred in 7.5% (29/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including fatal (0.8%), Grade 4 (0.3%) and Grade 3 (4.1%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
- Immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 3.9% (23/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including fatal (0.3%), Grade 4 (0.5%), and Grade 3 (2%) adverse reactions.

Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies

Adrenal Insufficiency: IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency. For Grade 2 or higher adrenal insufficiency, initiate symptomatic treatment, including hormone replacement as clinically indicated.
- IMFINZI as a Single Agent
  - Immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency occurred in 0.5% (9/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) adverse reactions.
- IMFINZI with IMJUDO
  - Immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency occurred in 1.5% (6/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions.
- IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
  - Immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency occurred in 2.2% (13/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.8%) adverse reactions.
Hypophysitis: IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated hypophysitis. Hypophysitis can present with acute symptoms associated with mass effect such as headache, photophobia, or visual field cuts. Hypophysitis can cause hypopituitarism. Initiate symptomatic treatment including hormone replacement as clinically indicated.
- IMFINZI as a Single Agent
  - Grade 3 hypophysitis/hypopituitarism occurred in <0.1% (1/1889) of patients who received IMFINZI.
- IMFINZI with IMJUDO
  - Immune-mediated hypophysitis/hypopituitarism occurred in 1% (4/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO.
- IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
  - Immune-mediated hypophysitis occurred in 1.3% (8/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.5%) adverse reactions.
Thyroid Disorders (Thyroiditis, Hyperthyroidism, and Hypothyroidism): IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated thyroid disorders. Thyroiditis can present with or without endocrinopathy. Hypothyroidism can follow hyperthyroidism. Initiate hormone replacement therapy for hypothyroidism or institute medical management of hyperthyroidism as clinically indicated.
- IMFINZI as a Single Agent
  - Immune-mediated thyroiditis occurred in 0.5% (9/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) adverse reactions.
  - Immune-mediated hyperthyroidism occurred in 2.1% (39/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI.
  - Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 8.3% (156/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) adverse reactions.
- IMFINZI with IMJUDO
  - Immune-mediated thyroiditis occurred in 1.5% (6/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO.
  - Immune-mediated hyperthyroidism occurred in 4.6% (18/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions.
  - Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 11% (42/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO.
- IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
  - Immune-mediated thyroiditis occurred in 1.2% (7/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy.
  - Immune-mediated hyperthyroidism occurred in 5% (30/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.2%) adverse reactions.
  - Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 8.6% (51/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.5%) adverse reactions.
- IMFINZI with Carboplatin and Paclitaxel
  - Immune-mediated hypothyroidism occurred in 14% (34/235) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel.
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, which can present with diabetic ketoacidosis: Monitor patients for hyperglycemia or other signs and symptoms of diabetes. Initiate treatment with insulin as clinically indicated.
- IMFINZI as a Single Agent
  - Grade 3 immune-mediated Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurred in <0.1% (1/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI.
- IMFINZI with IMJUDO
  - Two patients (0.5%, 2/388) had events of hyperglycemia requiring insulin therapy that had not resolved at last follow-up.
- IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
  - Immune-mediated Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurred in 0.5% (3/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions.

Immune-Mediated Nephritis with Renal Dysfunction
IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated nephritis.

IMFINZI as a Single Agent
- Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 0.5% (10/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (<0.1%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO
- Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 1% (4/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 3 (0.5%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
- Immune-mediated nephritis occurred in 0.7% (4/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.2%) adverse reactions.

Immune-Mediated Dermatology Reactions
IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated rash or dermatitis. Exfoliative dermatitis, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), has occurred with PD-1/L-1 and CTLA-4 blocking antibodies. Topical emollients and/or topical corticosteroids may be adequate to treat mild to moderate non-exfoliative rashes.

IMFINZI as a Single Agent
- Immune-mediated rash or dermatitis occurred in 1.8% (34/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (0.4%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO
- Immune-mediated rash or dermatitis occurred in 4.9% (19/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 4 (0.3%) and Grade 3 (1.5%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
- Immune-mediated rash or dermatitis occurred in 7.2% (43/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions.

Immune-Mediated Pancreatitis
IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO can cause immune-mediated pancreatitis. Immune-mediated pancreatitis occurred in 2.3% (9/388) of patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including Grade 4 (0.3%) and Grade 3 (1.5%) adverse reactions.

Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions
The following clinically significant, immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred at an incidence of less than 1% each in patients who received IMFINZI and IMJUDO or were reported with the use of other immune-checkpoint inhibitors.

Cardiac/vascular: Myocarditis, pericarditis, vasculitis.
Nervous system: Meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis and demyelination, myasthenic syndrome/myasthenia gravis (including exacerbation), Guillain-Barré syndrome, nerve paresis, autoimmune neuropathy.
Ocular: Uveitis, iritis, and other ocular inflammatory toxicities can occur. Some cases can be associated with retinal detachment. Various grades of visual impairment to include blindness can occur. If uveitis occurs in combination with other immune-mediated adverse reactions, consider a Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-like syndrome, as this may require treatment with systemic steroids to reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.
Gastrointestinal: Pancreatitis including increases in serum amylase and lipase levels, gastritis, duodenitis.
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Myositis/polymyositis, rhabdomyolysis and associated sequelae including renal failure, arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatic.
Endocrine: Hypoparathyroidism.
Other (hematologic/immune): Hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (Kikuchi lymphadenitis), sarcoidosis, immune thrombocytopenia, solid organ transplant rejection, other transplant (including corneal graft) rejection.

Infusion-Related Reactions
IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions. Monitor for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions. Interrupt, slow the rate of, or permanently discontinue IMFINZI and IMJUDO based on the severity. See USPI Dosing and Administration for specific details. For Grade 1 or 2 infusion-related reactions, consider using pre-medications with subsequent doses.

IMFINZI as a Single Agent
- Infusion-related reactions occurred in 2.2% (42/1889) of patients receiving IMFINZI, including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO
- Infusion-related reactions occurred in 10 (2.6%) patients receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO.
IMFINZI with IMJUDO and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy
- Infusion-related reactions occurred in 2.9% (17/596) of patients receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, including Grade 3 (0.3%) adverse reactions.

Complications of Allogeneic HSCT after IMFINZI
Fatal and other serious complications can occur in patients who receive allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) before or after being treated with a PD-1/L-1 blocking antibody. Transplant-related complications include hyperacute graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD), acute GVHD, chronic GVHD, hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) after reduced intensity conditioning, and steroid-requiring febrile syndrome (without an identified infectious cause). These complications may occur despite intervening therapy between PD-1/L-1 blockade and allogeneic HSCT. Follow patients closely for evidence of transplant-related complications and intervene promptly. Consider the benefit versus risks of treatment with a PD-1/L-1 blocking antibody prior to or after an allogeneic HSCT.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Based on their mechanism of action and data from animal studies, IMFINZI and IMJUDO can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. In females of reproductive potential, verify pregnancy status prior to initiating IMFINZI and IMJUDO and advise them to use effective contraception during treatment with IMFINZI and IMJUDO and for 3 months after the last dose of IMFINZI and IMJUDO.

Lactation
There is no information regarding the presence of IMFINZI and IMJUDO in human milk; however, because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants from IMFINZI and IMJUDO, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment and for 3 months after the last dose.

Adverse Reactions

In patients with Stage III NSCLC in the PACIFIC study receiving IMFINZI (n=475), the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were cough (40%), fatigue (34%), pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis (34%), upper respiratory tract infections (26%), dyspnea (25%), and rash (23%). The most common Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions (≥3%) were pneumonia (7%) and pneumonitis/radiation pneumonitis (3.4%).
In patients with Stage III NSCLC in the PACIFIC study receiving IMFINZI (n=475), discontinuation due to adverse reactions occurred in 15% of patients in the IMFINZI arm. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 29% of patients receiving IMFINZI. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (≥2%) were pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis (7%) and pneumonia (6%). Fatal pneumonitis or radiation pneumonitis and fatal pneumonia occurred in <2% of patients and were similar across arms.
In patients with mNSCLC in the POSEIDON study receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO plus platinum-based chemotherapy (n=330), the most common adverse reactions (occurring in ≥20% of patients) were nausea (42%), fatigue (36%), musculoskeletal pain (29%), decreased appetite (28%), rash (27%), and diarrhea (22%).
In patients with mNSCLC in the POSEIDON study receiving IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy (n=330), permanent discontinuation of IMFINZI or IMJUDO due to an adverse reaction occurred in 17% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 44% of patients, with the most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients being pneumonia (11%), anemia (5%), diarrhea (2.4%), thrombocytopenia (2.4%), pyrexia (2.4%), and febrile neutropenia (2.1%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in a total of 4.2% of patients.
In patients with extensive-stage SCLC in the CASPIAN study receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy (n=265), the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were nausea (34%), fatigue/asthenia (32%), and alopecia (31%). The most common Grade 3 or 4 adverse reaction (≥3%) was fatigue/asthenia (3.4%).
In patients with extensive-stage SCLC in the CASPIAN study receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy (n=265), IMFINZI was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 7% of the patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 31% of patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 1% of patients were febrile neutropenia (4.5%), pneumonia (2.3%), anemia (1.9%), pancytopenia (1.5%), pneumonitis (1.1%), and COPD (1.1%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 4.9% of patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy.
In patients with locally advanced or metastatic BTC in the TOPAZ-1 study receiving IMFINZI (n=338), the most common adverse reactions (occurring in ≥20% of patients) were fatigue (42%), nausea (40%), constipation (32%), decreased appetite (26%), abdominal pain (24%), rash (23%), and pyrexia (20%).
In patients with locally advanced or metastatic BTC in the TOPAZ-1 study receiving IMFINZI (n=338), discontinuation due to adverse reactions occurred in 6% of the patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 47% of patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients were cholangitis (7%), pyrexia (3.8%), anemia (3.6%), sepsis (3.3%) and acute kidney injury (2.4%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 3.6% of patients receiving IMFINZI plus chemotherapy. These include ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke (4 patients), sepsis (2 patients), and upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (2 patients).
In patients with unresectable HCC in the HIMALAYA study receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO (n=388), the most common adverse reactions (occurring in ≥20% of patients) were rash (32%), diarrhea (27%), fatigue (26%), pruritus (23%), musculoskeletal pain (22%), and abdominal pain (20%).
In patients with unresectable HCC in the HIMALAYA study receiving IMFINZI and IMJUDO (n=388), serious adverse reactions occurred in 41% of patients. Serious adverse reactions in >1% of patients included hemorrhage (6%), diarrhea (4%), sepsis (2.1%), pneumonia (2.1%), rash (1.5%), vomiting (1.3%), acute kidney injury (1.3%), and anemia (1.3%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 8% of patients who received IMFINZI and IMJUDO, including death (1%), hemorrhage intracranial (0.5%), cardiac arrest (0.5%), pneumonitis (0.5%), hepatic failure (0.5%), and immune-mediated hepatitis (0.5%). Permanent discontinuation of treatment regimen due to an adverse reaction occurred in 14% of patients.
In patients with advanced or recurrent dMMR endometrial cancer in the DUO-E study receiving IMFINZI in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel followed by IMFINZI as a single-agent (n=44), the most common adverse reactions, including laboratory abnormalities (occurring in >20% of patients) were peripheral neuropathy (61%), musculoskeletal pain (59%), nausea (59%), alopecia (52%), fatigue (41%), abdominal pain (39%), constipation (39%), rash (39%), decreased magnesium (36%), increased ALT (32%), increased AST (30%), diarrhea (27%), vomiting (27%), cough (27%), decreased potassium (25%), dyspnea (25%), headache (23%), increased alkaline phosphatase (20%), and decreased appetite (18%). The most common Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions (≥3%) were constipation (4.5%) and fatigue (4.5%).
In patients with advanced or recurrent dMMR endometrial cancer in the DUO-E study receiving IMFINZI in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel followed by IMFINZI as a single-agent (n=44), permanent discontinuation of IMFINZI due to adverse reactions occurred in 11% of patients. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 30% of patients who received IMFINZI with carboplatin and paclitaxel; the most common serious adverse reactions (≥4%) were constipation (4.5%) and rash (4.5%).

The safety and effectiveness of IMFINZI and IMJUDO have not been established in pediatric patients.

Indications:

IMFINZI is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose disease has not progressed following concurrent platinum-based chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

IMFINZI, in combination with IMJUDO and platinum-based chemotherapy, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic NSCLC with no sensitizing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations or anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) genomic tumor aberrations.

IMFINZI, in combination with etoposide and either carboplatin or cisplatin, is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC).

IMFINZI, in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic biliary tract cancer (BTC).

IMFINZI in combination with IMJUDO is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC).

IMFINZI in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel followed by IMFINZI as a single agent is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer that is mismatch repair deficient (dMMR).

Please see Full Prescribing Information including Medication Guide for IMFINZI and IMJUDO.

Notes

Liver cancer
Liver cancer, of which HCC is the most common type, is the third-leading cause of cancer death, with nearly 900,000 people worldwide diagnosed each year and a high prevalence in certain regions of Asia.^1-2 An estimated 80-90% of all patients with HCC also have cirrhosis. Chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis are associated with inflammation that over time can lead to the development of HCC.³

Advanced-stage HCC prognosis is poor, with a five-year survival rate of only 7%.⁴More than half of patients are diagnosed at advanced stages of the disease, often when symptoms first appear.⁵ The unique immune environment of liver cancer provides clear rationale for investigating medications that harness the power of the immune system to treat HCC.⁵

HIMALAYA
HIMALAYA is a randomized, open-label, multi-center, global Phase III trial of IMFINZI monotherapy and a regimen comprising a single priming dose of IMJUDO 300 mg added to IMFINZI 1500mg followed by IMFINZI every four weeks (STRIDE regimen) versus sorafenib, a standard-of-care multi-kinase inhibitor.

The trial included a total of 1,324 randomized patients with unresectable, advanced HCC who had not been treated with prior systemic therapy and were not eligible for locoregional therapy (treatment localized to the liver and surrounding tissue).

The trial was conducted in 181 centers across 16 countries, including in the US, Canada, Europe, South America and Asia. The primary endpoint was OS for the combination versus sorafenib and key secondary endpoints included OS for IMFINZI versus sorafenib, objective response rate and progression-free survival (PFS) for the combination and for IMFINZI alone.

IMFINZI
IMFINZI^®(durvalumab) is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to the PD-L1 protein and blocks the interaction of PD-L1 with the PD-1 and CD80 proteins, countering the tumor’s immune-evading tactics and releasing the inhibition of immune responses.

IMFINZI is approved in combination with chemotherapy (gemcitabine plus cisplatin) in locally advanced or metastatic biliary tract cancer (BTC) and in combination with IMJUDO^® (tremelimumab-actl) in unresectable HCC. IMFINZI is also approved as a monotherapy in unresectable HCC in Japan and the EU and in combination with chemotherapy (carboplatin plus paclitaxel) followed by IMFINZI monotherapy in primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer that is mismatch repair deficient in the US.

In addition to its indications in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, IMFINZI is the global standard of care in the curative-intent setting of unresectable, Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients whose disease has not progressed after chemoradiotherapy. IMFINZI is also approved for the treatment of extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and in combination with a short course of IMJUDO and chemotherapy for the treatment of metastatic NSCLC. In limited-stage SCLC, IMFINZI demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in the dual primary endpoints of OS and PFS compared to placebo in patients who had not progressed following standard-of-care concurrent chemoradiotherapy in the ADRIATIC Phase III trial.

IMFINZI in combination with neoadjuvant platinum-containing chemotherapy before surgery and as adjuvant monotherapy after surgery has been approved for patients in the US and several other countries for the treatment of adult patients with resectable NSCLC and no known epidermal growth factor receptor mutations or anaplastic lymphoma kinase rearrangements.

IMFINZI plus chemotherapy followed by IMFINZI alone was recently approved in the US for mismatch repair deficient patients with primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer. This regimen was also approved in the EU, in addition to IMFINZI plus chemotherapy followed by IMFINZI and olaparib for mismatch repair proficient patients.

In muscle-invasive bladder cancer, IMFINZI in combination with chemotherapy demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in the primary endpoint of event-free survival and the key secondary endpoint of OS versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the NIAGARA Phase III trial.

Since the first approval in May 2017, more than 220,000 patients have been treated with IMFINZI. As part of a broad development program, IMFINZI is being tested as a single treatment and in combinations with other anti-cancer treatments for patients with SCLC, NSCLC, bladder cancer, breast cancer, several GI and gynecologic cancers other solid tumors.

IMJUDO
IMJUDO^® (tremelimumab-actl) is a human monoclonal antibody that targets the activity of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4). IMJUDO blocks the activity of CTLA-4, contributing to T-cell activation, priming the immune response to cancer and fostering cancer cell death. In addition to its approved indications in liver and lung cancers, IMJUDO is being tested in combination with IMFINZI across multiple tumor types including locoregional HCC (EMERALD-3), SCLC (ADRIATIC) and bladder cancer (VOLGA and NILE).

AstraZeneca in GI cancers
AstraZeneca has a broad development program for the treatment of GI cancers across several medicines and a variety of tumor types and stages of disease. In 2022, GI cancers collectively represented approximately 4.9 million new cancer cases leading to approximately 3.3 million deaths.⁶

Within this program, the Company is committed to improving outcomes in gastric, liver, biliary tract, esophageal, pancreatic and colorectal cancers.

In addition to its indications in BTC and HCC, IMFINZI is being assessed in combinations, including with IMJUDO, in liver, esophageal and gastric cancers in an extensive development program spanning early to late-stage disease across settings.

The Company is also assessing rilvegostomig (AZD2936), a PD-1/TIGIT bispecific antibody, in combination with chemotherapy as an adjuvant therapy in BTC and as a 1st-line treatment in patients with HER2-negative, locally advanced unresectable or metastatic gastroesophageal junction cancers.

Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki, a HER2-directed antibody drug conjugate, is approved in the US, China and several other countries for HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer and is being assessed in colorectal cancer. It also has been assessed in multiple GI settings including BTC in the DESTINY-PanTumor02 Phase II trial, and it was recently approved in the US for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive solid tumors who have received prior systemic treatment and have no satisfactory alternative treatment options. Fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki is jointly developed and commercialized by AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo.

Olaparib, a first-in-class PARP inhibitor, is approved in the US, EU and several other countries for the treatment of BRCA-mutated metastatic pancreatic cancer. Olaparib is developed and commercialized in collaboration with Merck & Co., Inc., known as MSD outside the US and Canada.

AstraZeneca is advancing multiple modalities that provide complementary mechanisms for targeting Claudin 18.2, a promising therapeutic target in gastric cancer. These include AZD0901, a potential first-in-class antibody drug conjugate licensed from KYM Biosciences Inc., currently in Phase III development, AZD5863, a novel Claudin 18.2/CD3 T-cell engager bispecific antibody licensed from Harbour Biomed in Phase I development, and AZD6422, an armored autologous chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy, currently being evaluated in an Investigator Initiated Trial (IIT) in collaboration with AbelZeta in China.

In early development, AstraZeneca is developing two Glypican 3 (GPC3) armored CAR-Ts in HCC. AZD5851, currently in Phase I development, is being developed globally, and C-CAR031 / AZD7003 is being co-developed with AbelZeta in China where it is under evaluation in an IIT.

AstraZeneca in immuno-oncology (IO)
AstraZeneca is a pioneer in introducing the concept of immunotherapy into dedicated clinical areas of high unmet medical need. The Company has a comprehensive and diverse IO portfolio and pipeline anchored in immunotherapies designed to overcome evasion of the anti-tumor immune response and stimulate the body’s immune system to attack tumors.

AstraZeneca strives to redefine cancer care and help transform outcomes for patients with IMFINZI as a monotherapy and in combination with IMJUDO as well as other novel immunotherapies and modalities. The Company is also investigating next-generation immunotherapies like bispecific antibodies and therapeutics that harness different aspects of immunity to target cancer, including cell therapy and T-cell engagers.

AstraZeneca is pursuing an innovative clinical strategy to bring IO-based therapies that deliver long-term survival to new settings across a wide range of cancer types. The Company is focused on exploring novel combination approaches to help prevent treatment resistance and drive longer immune responses. With an extensive clinical program, the Company also champions the use of IO treatment in earlier disease stages, where there is the greatest potential for cure.

AstraZeneca in oncology
AstraZeneca is leading a revolution in oncology with the ambition to provide cures for cancer in every form, following the science to understand cancer and all its complexities to discover, develop and deliver life-changing medicines to patients.

The Company’s focus is on some of the most challenging cancers. It is through persistent innovation that AstraZeneca has built one of the most diverse portfolios and pipelines in the industry, with the potential to catalyze changes in the practice of medicine and transform the patient experience.

AstraZeneca has the vision to redefine cancer care and, one day, eliminate cancer as a cause of death.

AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 125 countries, and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. For more information, please visit www.astrazeneca-us.com and follow us on social media @AstraZeneca.

References

World Health Organization. Liver Cancer Fact Sheet. Available at: https://gco.iarc.who.int/media/globocan/factsheets/cancers/11-liver-and-intrahepatic-bile-ducts-fact-sheet.pdf. Accessed September 2024.
Liu Y, et al. Changes in the Epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Asia. Cancers (Basel). 2022;14(18):4473.
Tarao K, et al. Real impact of liver cirrhosis on the development of hepatocellular carcinoma in various liver diseases—meta‐analytic assessment. Cancer Med. 2019;8(3):1054-1065.
Sayiner M, et al. Disease Burden of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Global Perspective. Digestive Diseases and Sciences. 2019;64: 910-917.
Colagrande S, et al. Challenges of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol. 2016;22(34):7645-7659.
World Health Organization. Cancer factsheets: Digestive organs (oesophagus, anus, stomach, colon, rectum, liver and intrahepatic bile ducts, pancreas, gallbladder). Available at: https://gco.iarc.fr/today/en/fact-sheets-cancers. Accessed September 2024.

US-93784 Last Updated 9/24

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240916766941/en/

Media Inquiries

Brendan McEvoy

+1 302 885 2677

Chelsea Tressler

+1 302 885 2677

US Media Mailbox: usmediateam@astrazeneca.com

Source: AstraZeneca

FAQ

What were the 5-year survival rates for IMFINZI plus IMJUDO vs sorafenib in the HIMALAYA trial for AZN?

In the HIMALAYA Phase III trial, 19.6% of patients treated with IMFINZI plus IMJUDO (STRIDE regimen) were alive at 5 years compared to 9.4% for those treated with sorafenib.

How much did IMFINZI plus IMJUDO reduce the risk of death compared to sorafenib in AZN's HIMALAYA trial?

IMFINZI plus IMJUDO (STRIDE regimen) reduced the risk of death by 24% compared to sorafenib, based on a hazard ratio of 0.76 (95% CI 0.65-0.89).

What was the 5-year survival rate for patients achieving disease control with AZN's STRIDE regimen vs sorafenib?

Among patients achieving disease control, 28.7% treated with the STRIDE regimen were alive at 5 years versus 12.7% of patients treated with sorafenib.

Were there any new safety concerns identified for IMFINZI plus IMJUDO in AZN's updated HIMALAYA trial results?

No new safety signals were observed with longer follow-up. The safety profile was consistent with the known profiles of each medicine.

IMFINZI® (durvalumab) plus IMJUDO® (tremelimumab-actl) demonstrated unprecedented overall survival in advanced liver cancer with one in five patients surviving five years in HIMALAYA Phase III trial

Insights

FAQ

What were the 5-year survival rates for IMFINZI plus IMJUDO vs sorafenib in the HIMALAYA trial for AZN?

How much did IMFINZI plus IMJUDO reduce the risk of death compared to sorafenib in AZN's HIMALAYA trial?

What was the 5-year survival rate for patients achieving disease control with AZN's STRIDE regimen vs sorafenib?

Were there any new safety concerns identified for IMFINZI plus IMJUDO in AZN's updated HIMALAYA trial results?

NASDAQ:AZN

AZN Rankings

AZN Latest News

AZN Stock Data

Trending News

IMFINZI® (durvalumab) plus IMJUDO® (tremelimumab-actl) demonstrated unprecedented overall survival in advanced liver cancer with one in five patients surviving five years in HIMALAYA Phase III trial

Insights

Oncology Specialist positive

Medical Research Analyst positive

Financial Analyst positive

FAQ

What were the 5-year survival rates for IMFINZI plus IMJUDO vs sorafenib in the HIMALAYA trial for AZN?

How much did IMFINZI plus IMJUDO reduce the risk of death compared to sorafenib in AZN's HIMALAYA trial?

What was the 5-year survival rate for patients achieving disease control with AZN's STRIDE regimen vs sorafenib?

Were there any new safety concerns identified for IMFINZI plus IMJUDO in AZN's updated HIMALAYA trial results?

NASDAQ:AZN

AZN Rankings

AZN Latest News

AZN Stock Data