Efficacy

Portrazza (necitumumab) Efficacy in Lung Cancer

Portrazza (necitumumab) is a monoclonal antibody used as a first-line treatment for metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in combination with chemotherapy. It targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is known to play a critical role in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Clinical trials have demonstrated that when necitumumab is added to a standard chemotherapy regimen of gemcitabine and cisplatin, there is a modest improvement in overall survival compared to chemotherapy alone. Patients treated with necitumumab in combination with chemotherapy had a median survival of 11.5 months, compared to 9.9 months for those who received chemotherapy without necitumumab.

However, it is important to note that the efficacy of Portrazza varies among patients, and it is approved specifically for the treatment of metastatic squamous NSCLC, not other subtypes of lung cancer. The benefits must be weighed against potential side effects, which can include skin rash and magnesium deficiency. The decision to use necitumumab should be based on a thorough assessment of the patient's individual condition and the presence of EGFR protein expression.

Lumakras (sotorasib) Efficacy in Lung Cancer

Lumakras (sotorasib) represents a significant advancement in the treatment of lung cancer, specifically for patients with KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC. This mutation is present in approximately 13% of patients with non-small cell lung cancer and has been historically difficult to target. Sotorasib is the first FDA-approved targeted therapy for tumors with the KRAS G12C mutation. In clinical trials, sotorasib has shown promising efficacy in shrinking tumors and slowing disease progression in patients with this specific genetic alteration.

The efficacy of Lumakras was evaluated in a phase 2 trial involving patients with KRAS G12C-mutated NSCLC who had received at least one prior systemic therapy. The trial reported a response rate of around 37.1%, with a median duration of response of 11.1 months. The median progression-free survival was 6.8 months, indicating a significant period during which the disease did not worsen. While these results are encouraging, ongoing studies are aimed at better understanding the long-term benefits of sotorasib and exploring its use in combination with other therapies.