Efficacy

Lynparza (Olaparib) Efficacy in Breast Cancer

Lynparza, also known by its generic name olaparib, is a targeted therapy medication primarily used in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer. It is a PARP inhibitor that works by interfering with the DNA repair process in cancer cells, which can lead to cell death, particularly in cells that are already compromised due to a BRCA mutation. Lynparza has shown efficacy in patients with germline BRCA-mutated, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer who have previously received chemotherapy. Clinical trials have demonstrated a significant improvement in progression-free survival in patients treated with olaparib compared to those who received standard chemotherapy.

The effectiveness of Lynparza was highlighted in the OlympiAD trial, which was a pivotal phase III study. This trial reported that olaparib substantially delayed disease progression with a median progression-free survival of 7.0 months, compared to 4.2 months in patients who received standard therapy. Furthermore, the response rate was higher among patients treated with Lynparza, and some quality-of-life measures favored the olaparib group. These results established Lynparza as an important option for patients with BRCA-mutated metastatic breast cancer.

Phesgo (Pertuzumab, Trastuzumab, and Hyaluronidase) Efficacy in Breast Cancer

Phesgo is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies, pertuzumab and trastuzumab, with the enzyme hyaluronidase, and is used in the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer. This combination allows for subcutaneous injection, which simplifies the administration of these previously intravenous-only medications. Pertuzumab and trastuzumab target the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in certain breast cancers and promotes the growth of cancer cells. By inhibiting HER2 signaling and calling the immune system to attack the cancer cells, this combination has shown significant efficacy in treating HER2-positive breast cancer.

In clinical trials, Phesgo has demonstrated a non-inferiority in efficacy compared to the intravenous formulations of pertuzumab and trastuzumab. The pivotal study, the FeDeriCa trial, confirmed that the combination delivered through subcutaneous injection achieved comparable levels of the drugs in the blood and similar efficacy outcomes. Patients receiving Phesgo experienced a reduction in the risk of disease worsening or death, and the treatment was effective in both the neoadjuvant (before surgery) and adjuvant (after surgery) settings. The convenience of subcutaneous administration without compromising efficacy makes Phesgo an innovative treatment option for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer.