IQWiG finds hint of 'considerable added benefit' for Keytruda in NSCLC

In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has already formed metastases, the suitable treatment depends, among other factors, on the genes that are activated in the tumor cells and whether mutations have occurred that make certain treatments ineffective.

In Europe, the monoclonal antibody Keytruda (pembrolizumab) from US pharma giant Merck & Co (NYSE: MRK) has been available since July 2016 for second-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC in adults whose tumours express the T-cell receptor ligand PD-L1 and who have received a prior chemotherapy regimen. Following extension of approval, the drug can also be used in first-line treatment if at least half of the tumor cells produce PD-L1 and, in addition, the tumors have no activating mutations of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK).

The German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) therefore examined in an early benefit assessment whether the drug offers an added benefit also for these patients. According to the findings, there is a hint of considerable added benefit in comparison with the appropriate comparator therapy – particularly due to the prolonged overall survival.