Merus’ Petosemtamab Demonstrates Promising Efficacy in Head and Neck Cancer, Enhancing Its ‘Best-in-Disease’ Profile

Clinical Data:
Merus's petosemtamab has shown a 40.4% response rate in treating recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (r/m HNSCC) in previously treated patients, with a median duration of response of 7.2 months and median overall survival of 12.5 months1 4.

Dose Comparison:
The 1500mg dose of petosemtamab demonstrated superior efficacy compared to the 1100mg dose, with 5 responses (including 1 complete response) in 12 evaluable patients at 1500mg versus 1 confirmed response in 10 patients at 1100mg1 4.

Safety Profile:
Petosemtamab was well-tolerated at both dose levels, with no grade 5 adverse events reported1 4.

Combination Therapy:
In first-line treatment, petosemtamab in combination with pembrolizumab showed a 67% response rate among 24 evaluable patients, indicating potential as a new standard of care for previously untreated head and neck cancer2 3.

Phase 3 Trials:
Merus has initiated phase 3 trials for petosemtamab in both 1L and 2/3L recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer, aiming to further establish its efficacy and safety3 5.

ESMO Asia Congress 2024:
The updated clinical data for petosemtamab will be presented at the ESMO Asia Congress 2024, highlighting its potential as a best-in-disease treatment option1 4.