Merus Phase 2 Data: Analysts See Strong Survival in Head & Neck Cancer, ‘Home Run’ Hopes Emerge
Interim data from Merus' Phase 2 trial of petosemtamab combined with pembrolizumab in first-line PD-L1+ recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) showed a 79% overall survival rate at 12 months, with a median progression-free survival of 9 months134.
A 63% response rate was observed among 43 evaluable patients in the trial, significantly higher than what is typically seen with pembrolizumab alone, the current standard of care34.
Analysts describe the data as robust, exceeding expectations and potentially positioning the therapy as a new standard if confirmed in larger, randomized studies23.
The results reflect what some consider a 'home run' scenario for Merus, suggesting notable advancement over existing treatment options and strong investor enthusiasm23.
While these results are preliminary and require confirmation in ongoing phase 3 trials, they have generated significant optimism ahead of additional presentations at major oncology conferences23.
Sources:
1. https://pipelinereview.com/merus-petosemtamab-with-pembrolizumab-interim-data-demonstrates-robust-efficacy-and-durability-in-1l-pd-l1-r-m-hnscc/
2. https://www.statnews.com/2025/05/22/merus-drug-with-keytruda-shows-preliminary-survival-boost-head-and-neck-cancer/
3. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/05/22/3087180/37568/en/Merus-Petosemtamab-with-Pembrolizumab-Interim-Data-Demonstrates-Robust-Efficacy-and-Durability-in-1L-PD-L1-r-m-HNSCC.html
4. https://ir.merus.nl/news-releases/news-release-details/merus-petosemtamab-pembrolizumab-interim-data-demonstrates