Efficacy

Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) Efficacy in Breast Cancer

Keytruda, also known by its generic name pembrolizumab, is an immunotherapy drug that has shown efficacy in the treatment of certain types of breast cancer. Specifically, pembrolizumab is a PD-1 (Programmed Death receptor-1) inhibitor that helps to activate the immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells. Its use in breast cancer is generally focused on PD-L1 positive, metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is a more aggressive and difficult-to-treat form of the disease. Clinical trials have demonstrated that when combined with chemotherapy, Keytruda can improve progression-free survival in patients with advanced TNBC who express PD-L1, compared to chemotherapy alone.

However, the efficacy of Keytruda can vary based on the expression of PD-L1 and the stage of breast cancer. The KEYNOTE-355 trial, for instance, showed that patients with a PD-L1 combined positive score (CPS) of 10 or more experienced a significant improvement in progression-free survival when treated with Keytruda in combination with chemotherapy. This highlights the importance of biomarker testing in personalizing treatment for breast cancer patients.

Nerlynx (Neratinib) Efficacy in Breast Cancer

Nerlynx, or neratinib, is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets the HER2 protein, which can promote the growth of cancer cells. In breast cancer, Nerlynx is used for the extended adjuvant treatment of HER2-positive early-stage breast cancer in patients who have previously been treated with trastuzumab-based therapy. The ExteNET study, a pivotal phase III clinical trial, demonstrated that Nerlynx significantly reduced the risk of invasive disease recurrence or death by 27% compared to placebo in this patient population.

Moreover, the efficacy of Nerlynx is particularly notable in patients who initiate treatment within one year of completing trastuzumab therapy, underscoring the importance of timely treatment. The benefit of Nerlynx has been shown to persist over time, with a sustained reduction in the risk of recurrence. However, the effectiveness of Nerlynx can be accompanied by side effects, such as diarrhea, which can be managed with prophylactic and symptomatic treatments. Patients considering Nerlynx should discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare provider.