Confirmation that Keytruda will not topple Adcetris in Hodgkin's lymphoma

3 March 2020

While new data show Merck & Co’s (NYSE: MRK) Keytruda (pembrolizumab) besting Adcetris (brentuximab vedotin) in classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), analysts are doubtful the star checkpoint inhibitor will sweep all before it in this indication.

On Monday, Merck announced results from the Phase III KEYNOTE-204, which compares Keytruda with Seattle Genetics’ (Nasdaq: SGEN) blockbuster antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) Adcentris.

An interim analysis showed the trial met one of its dual primary endpoints of progression-free survival (PFS), while it remains to be seen how the data will play out on the other primary endpoint. The study will continue to evaluate overall survival (OS).

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