Novartis Myeloma Treatment Extends PFS

Novartis has reported that a Phase III trial of LBH589 (panobinostat) in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone met the primary endpoint of significantly extending progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with relapsed or relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma when compared to bortezomib plus dexamethasone alone. Full results from the trial are being evaluated and will be presented at an upcoming medical congress and discussed with regulatory authorities worldwide.

LBH589 showed significant clinical benefit bringing it a step closer to becoming the first in its class of anticancer agents to be available to patients with multiple myeloma. As a pan-deacetylase (pan-DAC) inhibitor, LBH589 works by blocking a key cancer cell enzyme which ultimately leads to cellular stress and death of these cells. Prior data demonstrated that oral LBH589, when combined with bortezomib and dexamethasone, recaptures responses in heavily pretreated and bortezomib-refractory multiple myeloma patients, thereby providing these patients with a potential new option after failing prior standard treatments. The compound’s possible benefits and risks are also being explored in additional hematologic malignancies through ongoing clinical trials.

The trial’s key secondary endpoint is overall survival (OS). Other secondary endpoints include overall response rate, duration of response and safety.