Astrazeneca Plc - AZN STOCK NEWS

AstraZeneca announced positive results from the CAPItello-291 Phase III trial, demonstrating that capivasertib combined with FASLODEX significantly improves progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with HR-positive, HER2-low or negative metastatic breast cancer. This offers new hope for patients experiencing resistance to current therapies. The trial met its primary endpoints and safety profiles were consistent with previous studies. Although overall survival data is still immature, initial results are promising.

AstraZeneca has received FDA approval for IMJUDO (tremelimumab) in combination with IMFINZI (durvalumab) to treat adults with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This combination therapy demonstrated a 22% reduced risk of death compared to sorafenib, based on Phase III HIMALAYA trial results. The novel STRIDE regimen includes a single dose of IMJUDO followed by IMFINZI every four weeks. An estimated 31% of patients treated with the combination were alive after three years. The approval underscores AstraZeneca's commitment to advancing cancer treatment options.

AstraZeneca, in collaboration with Scientific American Custom Media, unveiled the winners of the 2022 Cancer Community Awards (C2 Awards), recognizing significant contributions to equitable cancer care. Awardees included Sparrow’s Nest for improving care experiences, Charles R. Rogers for addressing health disparities, and the Center for H.O.P.E for enhancing access to screenings. Each winner received a $50,000 donation for their non-profit organizations, showcasing the importance of community partnerships in redefining cancer treatment.

Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease will present groundbreaking data on ULTOMIRIS at the ECTRIMS Congress, showcasing its effectiveness in treating AQP4 Ab+ NMOSD. The CHAMPION-NMOSD trial demonstrated zero relapses over a median treatment duration of 73 weeks, reflecting a 98.6% reduction in relapse risk (p<0.0001) compared to placebo. Presentations will also address the emotional and physical burdens faced by NMOSD patients and the urgent need for improved treatments, reinforcing Alexion's commitment to patient-centered innovation.

Honeywell has launched its first large-scale facility in Baton Rouge for manufacturing Solstice Air, a near-zero global-warming-potential (GWP) medical propellant for inhalers. AstraZeneca plans to use this technology in respiratory medications, starting with their triple-combination therapy, pending regulatory approval. This collaboration emphasizes both healthcare innovation and sustainability. Honeywell has invested over $1 billion in this technology, which has already prevented the release of 295 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, aligning with its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2035.

Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, has announced its definitive agreement to acquire LogicBio Therapeutics (NASDAQ: LOGC) for $2.07 per share. This acquisition aims to enhance Alexion's capabilities in genomic medicine by leveraging LogicBio's unique gene delivery and editing technologies, as well as its experienced R&D team. The deal, approved by both boards, is expected to close within four to six weeks, pending shareholder approval. This strategic move underscores Alexion's commitment to advancing treatments for rare genetic diseases.

A prespecified interim analysis of the ALPHA Phase III trial shows that danicopan (ALXN2040), in combination with ULTOMIRIS or SOLIRIS, significantly improves hemoglobin levels in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) experiencing clinically significant extravascular hemolysis. The trial met its primary endpoint at 12 weeks, allowing for improved transfusion avoidance and fatigue scores. Danicopan was well tolerated with no significant safety concerns. Alexion plans to submit regulatory filings soon, aiming to enhance treatment options for PNH patients.

AstraZeneca has launched the Up The Antibodies campaign to support the immunocompromised community in preventing COVID-19. The campaign, featuring Jeff Bridges, aims to raise awareness about long-acting monoclonal antibodies as a protective option. A CDC study revealed that 12.2% of COVID-19 hospitalizations involved immunocompromised adults, who face severe outcomes. AstraZeneca collaborates with the Immune Deficiency Foundation to ensure the campaign addresses urgent needs and provides resources for patients and healthcare discussions about treatment options.

AstraZeneca has announced updated results from the TOPAZ-1 Phase III trial, demonstrating that its drug IMFINZI, in combination with standard chemotherapy, improves overall survival (OS) for patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC). The combination showed a 24% reduction in mortality risk compared to chemotherapy alone, with a median OS of 12.9 months versus 11.3 months. Additionally, exploratory results from the HIMALAYA trial indicated potential OS benefits for patients with unresectable liver cancer. IMFINZI's safety profile remained consistent, with no new safety signals identified.