Imfinzi (durvalumab) vs Retsevmo (selpercatinib)
Imfinzi (durvalumab) vs Retsevmo (selpercatinib)
Imfinzi (durvalumab) is an immune checkpoint inhibitor specifically targeting the PD-L1 protein, used primarily to treat certain types of lung cancer and bladder cancer by enhancing the body's immune response against cancer cells. Retsevmo (selpercatinib), on the other hand, is a selective RET kinase inhibitor designed to treat cancers with specific genetic markers, such as RET fusion-positive thyroid cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. When deciding between these two medications, it is crucial to consider the specific genetic and molecular characteristics of the cancer, as well as the overall health and treatment goals of the individual, since each drug targets different pathways and is approved for different indications.
Difference between Imfinzi and Retsevmo
| Metric | Imfinzi (durvalumab) | Retsevmo (selpercatinib) |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Durvalumab | Selpercatinib |
| Indications | Non-small cell lung cancer, urothelial carcinoma, extensive-stage small cell lung cancer | RET-altered thyroid cancers, non-small cell lung cancer |
| Mechanism of action | PD-L1 inhibitor, immune checkpoint inhibitor | RET kinase inhibitor |
| Brand names | Imfinzi | Retsevmo |
| Administrative route | Intravenous infusion | Oral |
| Side effects | Fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, constipation, decreased appetite, nausea, peripheral edema, urinary tract infection, fever, rash, dyspnea | Increased ALT/AST, increased blood glucose, decreased leukocytes, decreased albumin, decreased calcium, dry mouth, diarrhea, increased creatinine, hypertension, fatigue |
| Contraindications | Patients with severe hypersensitivity to durvalumab or any of its excipients | Patients with severe hypersensitivity to selpercatinib or any of its excipients |
| Drug class | Antineoplastic, monoclonal antibody | Kinase inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | AstraZeneca | Eli Lilly and Company |
Efficacy
Imfinzi (Durvalumab) Efficacy in Lung Cancer
Imfinzi (durvalumab) is a programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) blocking antibody indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose disease has not progressed following concurrent platinum-based chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Imfinzi in this setting, with the PACIFIC trial showing a significant improvement in median progression-free survival (PFS) compared to placebo. The study also indicated an increase in overall survival (OS) for patients treated with durvalumab, solidifying its role as a standard of care for this group of lung cancer patients.
Imfinzi works by targeting the PD-L1 pathway, which is exploited by cancer cells to evade detection by the immune system. By blocking this pathway, durvalumab helps to restore the body's immune response against the tumor cells. The effectiveness of Imfinzi in lung cancer treatment has been a breakthrough, particularly for patients with Stage III NSCLC who are not candidates for surgical resection and have limited treatment options.
Retsevmo (Selpercatinib) Efficacy in Lung Cancer
Retsevmo (selpercatinib) is a kinase inhibitor specifically designed for the treatment of certain types of lung cancers associated with abnormal RET genes. It is approved for use in patients with metastatic RET fusion-positive NSCLC. Clinical trials, including the LIBRETTO-001 trial, have shown that selpercatinib has a high objective response rate (ORR) in patients with RET fusion-positive NSCLC, with many patients experiencing a significant reduction in tumor size. The trial also reported a durable response, indicating that the benefits of the drug persist over time for many patients.
Retsevmo's targeted approach is particularly beneficial for patients with RET-driven lung cancers, as these tumors are often resistant to conventional chemotherapy and other targeted therapies. By inhibiting RET kinase, selpercatinib effectively halts the growth and spread of cancer cells with RET alterations. This specificity not only enhances its efficacy but also reduces the potential for off-target effects, making it a valuable treatment option in the precision medicine arsenal against lung cancer.
Regulatory Agency Approvals
Imfinzi
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
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Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
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Health Canada
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Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
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Medsafe (NZ)
Retsevmo
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
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Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
Access Imfinzi or Retsevmo today
If Imfinzi or Retsevmo are not approved or available in your country (e.g. due to supply issues), you can access them via Everyone.org.
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