Article with exploratory alkylator-refractory subgroup analysis from Oncopeptides’ OCEAN study observing longer PFS and OS in melflufen vs. pomalidomide published in European Journal of Haematology
Stockholm – November 17, 2023 – Oncopeptides AB (publ), a biotech company focused on difficult-to-treat cancers, today announces that a new article analyzing scientific data on melflufen, marketed in Europe as Pepaxti, has been published in the European Journal of Haematology, an international journal for communication of research in hematology. The results further demonstrate efficacy and consistent safety profile in patients with alkylator-refractory disease.
The article, “Melflufen in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma refractory to prior alkylators: a subgroup analysis from the OCEAN study” describes a post-hoc exploratory analysis where 153 patients refractory to prior alkylators in the OCEAN study were evaluated. Among the findings, the study shows that the observed median progression free survival, PFS, and overall survival, OS, were longer in the melflufen arm than in the comparator arm in the subgroup of patients that had either no prior autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) or a progression-free period after ASCT of at least 36 months. The results suggest that melflufen is safe and effective in these patients with alkylator-refractory disease, suggesting differentiated activity from other alkylators.
The full article can be found here.
The phase 3 OCEAN study is a global, randomized, head-to-head, open-label study, evaluating the efficacy and safety of melflufen and dexamethasone, versus pomalidomide and dexamethasone in patients with relapsed refractory multiple myeloma who have received 2-4 prior therapies.
“This article is yet another example of how the OCEAN study documents that melflufen is well positioned to addresses the high unmet medical need among elderly patients suffering from relapsed refractory multiple myeloma,” says Stefan Norin, Chief Medical Officer at Oncopeptides. “We will continue to work diligently to further communicate to the medical community the added efficacy, safety and quality of life that melflufen brings to patients.”
Q&A for investors
What is this?
Oncopeptides, like most other biotech companies conducting medical research, from time to time publish medical data in established publications, such as the European Journal of Haematology, or at medical congresses. These articles and presentations are primarily aimed at healthcare professionals.
The article referenced above is referencing a clinical study of the effect of melflufen combined with other drugs in patients suffering from multiple myeloma.
What does this data mean for physicians?
This publication includes a post-hoc analysis which means that the data is exploratory, however informs physicians on suggested efficacy and safety of Pepaxti in patients that do not longer respond to other alkylators. This is important evidence to demonstrate the suggested difference between Pepaxti and conventional alkylators.
What are medical publications?
Medical publications refer to written documents that present research findings, case studies, reviews, and other scientific information in the field of medicine. They are often published in scientific journals after undergoing a rigorous peer-review process.
Why are they important for a biotech company such as Oncopeptides?
Medical publications help to establish credibility, promote transparency, and provide valuable evidence for the efficacy and safety of treatments or interventions. By sharing research findings and clinical experiences, companies can contribute to the broader medical knowledge base, influencing patient care and industry standards.
Do these publications affect product development?
The data from research and clinical trials, when published, can provide insights into the development of new drugs or new indications for existing ones. They can also guide the direction of future research projects.
How do healthcare professionals use these publications?
Healthcare professionals rely on medical publications to stay updated on the latest research, innovative techniques, and best practices. This knowledge helps them make informed decisions about patient care and treatment choices.
Can the general public access these publications?
It depends on the publication. While many medical journals require subscriptions, there are open-access journals and resources where research is freely available. The European Journal of Haematology contains a mix of free and pay-for articles, the article in questions is free.
Why is the peer-review process in medical publications crucial?
Peer review ensures that the research presented in the publication is of high quality, scientifically sound, and free from biases. Experts in the field evaluate the research, which helps maintain the credibility and trustworthiness of the findings.
How do medical publications benefit patients?
By driving advancements in medical science, these publications play a role in the development of newer, safer, and more effective treatments. When healthcare companies share their findings, it speeds up the dissemination of crucial information, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
What does this data mean for physicians?
This publication includes a post-hoc analysis which means that the data is exploratory, however informs physicians on suggested efficacy and safety of Pepaxti in patients that do not longer respond to other alkylators. This is important evidence to demonstrate the suggested difference between Pepaxti and conventional alkylators.
Where can I find more information?
The article is available through this link.
For any further questions, please contact David Augustsson, Director of Corporate Affairs at david.augustsson@oncopeptides.com.