Phase III IMpower131 study results for Tecentriq in advanced squamous non-small cell lung cancer.- Roche.

Roche announced that the Phase III IMpower131 study met its co-primary endpoint of progression-free survival (PFS) and demonstrated that the combination of Tecentriq (atezolizumab) plus chemotherapy (carboplatin and Abraxane [albumin-bound paclitaxel; nab-paclitaxel]) reduced the risk of disease worsening or death (progression-free survival; PFS) compared with chemotherapy alone in the initial (first-line) treatment of people with advanced squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Safety for the Tecentriq and chemotherapy combination appeared consistent with the known safety profile of the individual medicines, and no new safety signals were identified with the combination.

At this interim analysis a statistically significant overall survival (OS) benefit was not observed and the study will continue as planned. These data will be presented at an upcoming oncology congress. As per the statistical analysis plan in IMpower131, Arm B (Tecentriq plus carboplatin and nab-paclitaxel) must demonstrate a statistically significant OS result vs. Arm C (carboplatin and nab-paclitaxel), before an analysis between Arm A (Tecentriq plus carboplatin and paclitaxel) and Arm C can be made for PFS and OS. Currently, Roche has eight Phase III lung cancer studies underway evaluating TecentriqQ alone or in combination with other medicines and five are expected to report this year.