Positive data from Phase III AURELIA trial of Avastin (Genentech/Roche) for Ovarian Cancer patients

A phase III study evaluating Avastin (bevacizumab), from Genentech/Roche, in combination with standard chemotherapy in women with Ovarian Cancer shows positive results. Data from the AURELIA study shows the risk of progression was reduced by 52 percent in women whose disease had worsened due to resistance to platinum-containing chemotherapy and who received Avastin plus chemotherapy compared with those who received chemotherapy (weekly paclitaxel, topotecan or pegylated liposomal doxorubicin) alone. The study met its primary endpoint of a significant improvement in progression free survival (6.7 months compared to 3.4 months). They also had a significantly higher rate of tumor shrinkage compared to women who received chemotherapy alone (30.9 percent versus 12.6 percent). Adverse events were consistent with those seen in previous trials of Avastin. Data was presented by Professor Eric Pujade-Lauraine, the AURELIA Principal Investigator and Head of the Medical Oncology Dept., Hopitaux Universitaires, Paris Centre, H�pital H�tel-Dieu, at the American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting.