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Business Wire
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Sarepta Therapeutics Acknowledges CHMP Negative Opinion for ELEVIDYS in the European Union
CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:SRPT), the leader in precision genetic medicine for rare diseases, acknowledges that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) issued a negative opinion on the conditional marketing authorization (CMA) for ELEVIDYS (delandistrogene moxeparvovec) in ambulatory individuals ages three to seven years for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). 'While we are disappointed by the CHMP's negative opinion, we understand the urgent need for continued dialogue and collaboration to bring transformative therapies to people with Duchenne who live with a relentless disease that steals their mobility, independence and ultimately life – often by early adulthood," said Louise Rodino-Klapac, Ph.D., president of research & development and technical operations, Sarepta. 'Following the initial FDA approval of ELEVIDYS on June 22, 2023, the therapy has subsequently received regulatory approval in several other countries. In the U.S., we are actively working with the FDA to address recent safety questions. We remain committed to working with regulators to address outstanding questions on safety so that people living with Duchenne have access to this important therapy.' ELEVIDYS is the first and only approved gene therapy targeting the underlying cause of disease that has consistently demonstrated stabilization or slowing of DMD disease progression, with durable effects on functional and biological outcomes and muscle health. While the primary endpoint was not met in EMBARK after one year, ELEVIDYS showed clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements across important secondary endpoints of functional outcome measures when compared to placebo. Longer term efficacy data were also submitted to EMA, including two-year results from the EMBARK study and three-year pooled efficacy analysis from three other ELEVIDYS studies that showed clinically meaningful improvements across key measures of motor function. One-year data from part one of the EMBARK study were published in Nature Medicine in October 2024, and results from year two were shared at this year's Muscular Dystrophy Association Clinical & Scientific Conference in Dallas. Quantitative muscle MR (magnetic resonance) outcomes from part 1 of EMBARK were published in JAMA Neurology in May 2025. Sarepta is responsible for regulatory approval and commercialization of ELEVIDYS in the U.S., as well as manufacturing. Roche is responsible for regulatory approvals and bringing ELEVIDYS to patients across the rest of the world. Regulatory approval and commercialization of ELEVIDYS in Japan is through Chugai Pharmaceuticals via its alliance with Roche. About ELEVIDYS (delandistrogene moxeparvovec-rokl) ELEVIDYS (delandistrogene moxeparvovec-rokl) is a single-dose, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene transfer therapy for intravenous infusion designed to address the underlying genetic cause of Duchenne muscular dystrophy – mutations or changes in the DMD gene that result in the lack of dystrophin protein – through the delivery of a transgene that codes for the targeted production of ELEVIDYS micro-dystrophin in skeletal muscle. ELEVIDYS is indicated in U.S. for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in individuals at least 4 years of age. For patients who are ambulatory and have a confirmed mutation in the DMD gene For patients who are non-ambulatory and have a confirmed mutation in the DMD gene. The DMD indication in non-ambulatory patients is approved under accelerated approval in the U.S. based on expression of ELEVIDYS micro-dystrophin (noted hereafter as 'micro-dystrophin') in skeletal muscle. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial(s). U.S. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION CONTRAINDICATION: ELEVIDYS is contraindicated in patients with any deletion in exon 8 and/or exon 9 in the DMD gene. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: Infusion-related Reactions: Infusion-related reactions, including hypersensitivity reactions and anaphylaxis, have occurred during or up to several hours following ELEVIDYS administration. Closely monitor patients during administration and for at least 3 hours after the end of infusion. If symptoms of infusion-related reactions occur, slow, or stop the infusion and give appropriate treatment. Once symptoms resolve, the infusion may be restarted at a lower rate. ELEVIDYS should be administered in a setting where treatment for infusion-related reactions is immediately available. Discontinue infusion for anaphylaxis. Acute Serious Liver Injury: Acute serious liver injury has been observed with ELEVIDYS, and administration may result in elevations of liver enzymes (such as GGT, GLDH, ALT, AST) or total bilirubin, typically seen within 8 weeks. Patients with preexisting liver impairment, chronic hepatic condition, or acute liver disease (e.g., acute hepatic viral infection) may be at higher risk of acute serious liver injury. Postpone ELEVIDYS administration in patients with acute liver disease until resolved or controlled. Prior to ELEVIDYS administration, perform liver enzyme test and monitor liver function (clinical exam, GGT, and total bilirubin) weekly for the first 3 months following ELEVIDYS infusion. Continue monitoring if clinically indicated, until results are unremarkable (normal clinical exam, GGT, and total bilirubin levels return to near baseline levels). Systemic corticosteroid treatment is recommended for patients before and after ELEVIDYS infusion. Adjust corticosteroid regimen when indicated. If acute serious liver injury is suspected, consultation with a specialist is recommended. Immune-mediated Myositis: In clinical trials, immune-mediated myositis has been observed approximately 1 month following ELEVIDYS infusion in patients with deletion mutations involving exon 8 and/or exon 9 in the DMD gene. Symptoms of severe muscle weakness, including dysphagia, dyspnea, and hypophonia, were observed. Limited data are available for ELEVIDYS treatment in patients with mutations in the DMD gene in exons 1 to 17 and/or exons 59 to 71. Patients with deletions in these regions may be at risk for a severe immune-mediated myositis reaction. Advise patients to contact a physician immediately if they experience any unexplained increased muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, including dysphagia, dyspnea, or hypophonia, as these may be symptoms of myositis. Consider additional immunomodulatory treatment (immunosuppressants [e.g., calcineurin-inhibitor] in addition to corticosteroids) based on patient's clinical presentation and medical history if these symptoms occur. Myocarditis: Acute serious myocarditis and troponin-I elevations have been observed following ELEVIDYS infusion in clinical trials. If a patient experiences myocarditis, those with pre-existing left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) impairment may be at higher risk of adverse outcomes. Monitor troponin-I before ELEVIDYS infusion and weekly for the first month following infusion and continue monitoring if clinically indicated. More frequent monitoring may be warranted in the presence of cardiac symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath. Advise patients to contact a physician immediately if they experience cardiac symptoms. Preexisting Immunity against AAVrh74: In AAV-vector based gene therapies, preexisting anti-AAV antibodies may impede transgene expression at desired therapeutic levels. Following treatment with ELEVIDYS, all patients developed anti-AAVrh74 antibodies. Perform baseline testing for presence of anti-AAVrh74 total binding antibodies prior to ELEVIDYS administration. ELEVIDYS administration is not recommended in patients with elevated anti-AAVrh74 total binding antibody titers greater than or equal to 1:400. Adverse Reactions: The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5%) reported in clinical studies were vomiting, nausea, liver injury, pyrexia, and thrombocytopenia. Report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit or call 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to Sarepta Therapeutics at 1-888-SAREPTA (1-888-727-3782). For further information, please see the full Prescribing Information. About Sarepta Therapeutics Sarepta is on an urgent mission: engineer precision genetic medicine for rare diseases that devastate lives and cut futures short. We hold leadership positions in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (Duchenne) and limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs) and are building a robust portfolio of programs across muscle, central nervous system, and cardiac diseases. For more information, please visit or follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram and Facebook. Internet Posting of Information We routinely post information that may be important to investors in the 'For Investors' section of our website at We encourage investors and potential investors to consult our website regularly for important information about us. Forward-Looking Statements This statement contains 'forward-looking statements.' Any statements that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Words such as 'will,' 'may,' 'potential' and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements relating to our future operations, research and development programs, discussions with regulators and the prospects for approvals or continued approvals, as applicable, of ELEVIDYS and the potential benefits and risks of ELEVIDYS. Actual results could materially differ from those stated or implied by these forward-looking statements as a result of such risks and uncertainties. Known risk factors include the following: different methodologies, assumptions and applications we use to assess particular safety or efficacy parameters may yield different statistical results; our products or product candidates may be perceived as insufficiently effective, unsafe or may result in unforeseen adverse events; our products or product candidates may cause undesirable side effects that result in significant negative consequences; the possible impact of regulatory decisions by, and any halts imposed by, regulatory agencies on our business; and those risks identified under the heading 'Risk Factors' in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as well as other SEC filings made by the Company, which you are encouraged to review. Any of the foregoing risks could materially and adversely affect the Company's business, results of operations and the trading price of Sarepta's common stock. For a detailed description of risks and uncertainties Sarepta faces, you are encouraged to review the SEC filings made by Sarepta. We caution investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained herein. Sarepta does not undertake any obligation to publicly update its forward-looking statements based on events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law. Source: Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc.
Business Upturn
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Upturn
Roche provides regulatory update on Elevidys™ gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy in the EU
EMA's CHMP issued an opinion not to recommend Elevidys™ (delandistrogene moxeparvovec) for the treatment of ambulatory individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) Roche will continue its dialogue with the EMA to explore a potential path forward to make Elevidys available to individuals living with DMD in the EU Roche believes the benefit-risk remains positive in the ambulatory Duchenne population Elevidys is the first and only disease-modifying gene therapy for DMD Basel, 25 July 2025 – Roche (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) announced today that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) issued a negative opinion on the conditional marketing authorisation (CMA) for Elevidys™ (delandistrogene moxeparvovec) for ambulatory individuals aged three to seven years with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Given the high unmet need in DMD, Roche plans to continue to work with the EMA to explore a potential path forward. 'We are disappointed by the CHMP's negative opinion, given the urgent need for disease-modifying therapies for children in the EU living with Duchenne,' said Levi Garraway, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Officer and Head of Global Product Development, Roche. 'With an average life expectancy of only 28 years, achieving disease stabilisation is a major advance for individuals living with Duchenne, their families and caregivers. We are confident in the value Elevidys can bring to ambulatory patients.' The CHMP opinion is based on data from the largest and broadest gene therapy clinical programme in DMD to date, including results from the pivotal Phase III EMBARK study that showed treatment with Elevidys provided sustained stabilisation or slowing of disease progression, and a consistent and manageable safety profile in ambulatory patients. To date, more than 900 individuals with DMD, 760 of whom are ambulatory, have been treated with Elevidys in clinical and real-world settings. While the primary endpoint was not met in EMBARK after one year, Elevidys showed clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements across important secondary endpoints of functional outcome measures when compared to placebo. Longer term efficacy data were also submitted to EMA, including two-year results from the EMBARK study and three-year pooled efficacy analysis from three other Elevidys studies that showed clinically meaningful improvements across key measures of motor function. One-year data from part one of the EMBARK study were published in Nature Medicine in October 2024 and results from year two were shared at this year's Muscular Dystrophy Association clinical & scientific conference in Dallas, TX. DMD is a rare, genetic, muscle-wasting disease that progresses rapidly from early childhood. Everyone with Duchenne will eventually lose the ability to walk, along with upper limb, lung, and cardiac function. Average life expectancy is only 28 years. The physical, emotional, and financial impact of Duchenne on those affected, their families, and caregivers, is profound. Roche recognises there is a significant unmet medical need for those living with Duchenne and the urgency for treating children before DMD progresses to provide the best possible chance for improved outcomes. We are actively working with health authorities across the globe to bring Elevidys to patients and their families as soon as possible. Elevidys is the first and only approved gene therapy targeting the underlying cause of disease that consistently demonstrates stabilisation or slowing of DMD disease progression, with durable effects on functional and biological outcomes and muscle health. About Duchenne muscular dystrophy DMD primarily affects males, with 1 in 5,000 boys born worldwide having Duchenne. Everyone with Duchenne will eventually lose the ability to walk, along with upper limb, lung and cardiac function. Average life expectancy is only 28 years. The physical, emotional and financial impact of Duchenne on those affected, their families and caregivers, is profound. Duchenne is an X-linked, rare neuromuscular disease caused by pathogenic variants (mutations) in the DMD gene that disrupt the production of functional dystrophin protein, leading to progressive and irreversible muscle weakness, diminished quality of life and premature death. Dystrophin strengthens and protects muscles and without it, normal activity causes excessive damage to muscle cells as they are more sensitive to injury. Over time, muscle tissue is replaced with scar tissue and fat, causing muscles to weaken. Although Duchenne progresses differently in each individual, its devastating trajectory is well established. Those with Duchenne will eventually lose the ability to use and move their limbs, to breathe on their own and are susceptible to respiratory infections. Muscle damage to the heart causes cardiomyopathy, including rhythm abnormalities and heart failure. Early diagnosis is important for timely intervention to prolong muscle function and preserve quality of life. There is a critical need for disease-modifying treatments that address the underlying cause of DMD before irreversible muscle loss occurs. About Elevidys™ (delandistrogene moxeparvovec) Elevidys™ (delandistrogene moxeparvovec, also known as SRP-9001) is the first approved disease-modifying gene therapy for Duchenne and is designed to address the underlying cause of Duchenne through targeted skeletal, respiratory and cardiac muscle expression of shortened dystrophin produced by Elevidys. Elevidys is a one-time treatment administered through a single intravenous dose. Elevidys is contraindicated in individuals with any deletion in exons 8 and/or 9 in the DMD gene. Elevidys has been studied in the largest and broadest gene therapy clinical development program in DMD with the longest follow-up (up to six years) in patients of all ages, and with various DMD mutations. To date, more than 900 individuals with DMD (more than 760 of whom are ambulatory) have been treated with Elevidys across clinical and real-world settings and Elevidys is now approved in nine countries, including Japan. Important Elevidys Updates: On 15 June, Roche announced new dosing restrictions for Elevidys for non-ambulatory DMD patients, irrespective of age, in both clinical and commercial settings. These measures followed two reported fatalities in the non-ambulatory DMD population. On 22 July, in response to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s request to Sarepta, Roche took additional measures towards initiating a voluntary and temporary pause of any new orders of Elevidys to countries outside the U.S. that reference the FDA as the basis for their local approval, and in Named Patient Supply (NPS) countries. Discussions with other relevant health authorities are ongoing. Roche will immediately respect requests to halt new orders and shipments from health authorities. Patient safety is Roche's highest priority. Based on the totality of available data, Roche believes that the benefit-risk profile is positive in the ambulatory patient population. To date, approximately 760 ambulatory DMD patients have been treated with Elevidys in clinical and real-world settings and there have been no treatment-related fatalities. Elevidys is being developed by Roche in collaboration with Sarepta Therapeutics About Roche in Neuroscience Neuroscience is a major focus of research and development at Roche. Our goal is to pursue groundbreaking science to develop new treatments that help improve the lives of people with chronic and potentially devastating diseases. Roche is investigating more than a dozen medicines for neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Together with our partners, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of scientific understanding to solve some of the most difficult challenges in neuroscience today. About Roche Founded in 1896 in Basel, Switzerland, as one of the first industrial manufacturers of branded medicines, Roche has grown into the world's largest biotechnology company and the global leader in in-vitro diagnostics. The company pursues scientific excellence to discover and develop medicines and diagnostics for improving and saving the lives of people around the world. We are a pioneer in personalised healthcare and want to further transform how healthcare is delivered to have an even greater impact. To provide the best care for each person we partner with many stakeholders and combine our strengths in Diagnostics and Pharma with data insights from the clinical practice. For over 125 years, sustainability has been an integral part of Roche's business. As a science-driven company, our greatest contribution to society is developing innovative medicines and diagnostics that help people live healthier lives. Roche is committed to the Science Based Targets initiative and the Sustainable Markets Initiative to achieve net zero by 2045. Genentech, in the United States, is a wholly owned member of the Roche Group. Roche is the majority shareholder in Chugai Pharmaceutical, Japan. For more information, please visit All trademarks used or mentioned in this release are protected by law. Roche Global Media Relations Phone: +41 61 688 8888 / e-mail: [email protected] Hans Trees, PhD Phone: +41 79 407 72 58 Sileia Urech Phone: +41 79 935 81 48 Nathalie Altermatt Phone: +41 79 771 05 25 Lorena Corfas Phone: +41 79 568 24 95 Simon Goldsborough Phone: +44 797 32 72 915 Karsten Kleine Phone: +41 79 461 86 83 Kirti Pandey Phone: +49 172 6367262 Yvette Petillon Phone: +41 79 961 92 50 Dr Rebekka Schnell Phone: +41 79 205 27 03 Roche Investor Relations Investor Relations North America Loren KalmPhone: +1 650 225 3217 e-mail: [email protected] Attachment Media Investor Release Elevidys CHMP Opinion English Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pfizer and Astellas' Xtandi improves OS as combination therapy
Pfizer and Astellas' Xtandi (enzalutamide) has improved overall survival (OS) in patients with non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (nmHSPC), but only as a combination therapy. First approved in 2012, the prostate cancer therapy met the secondary endpoint of OS in the Phase III EMBARK trial (NCT02319837) when combined with leuprolide, compared to placebo plus leuprolide, in patients with nmHSPC with biochemical recurrence (BCR) and high risk for metastasis. Despite this, while a favourable trend was observed, there was no statistical significance between Xtandi monotherapy and placebo or leuprolide. In the trial, patients were randomised across three arms: Xtandi plus leuprolide, placebo plus leuprolide, or Xtandi alone. This update comes two years after the companies announced the trial met its primary endpoint with a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in metastasis-free survival (MFS) for patients treated with Xtandi plus leuprolide versus placebo plus leuprolide. Although Pfizer and Astellas have not yet disclosed additional details about the OS data, they stated that full results will be presented at an upcoming medical meeting. They also noted that safety results were consistent with the known safety profile of Xtandi. Carolina Urologic Research Center's medical director Dr Neal Shore said: 'These data demonstrate that treatment with Xtandi can extend life for men with nmHSPC and high-risk BCR who have relapsed after initial curative-intent therapy with prostatectomy, radiation therapy or both, further validating EMBARK's metastasis-free survival (MFS) data. "While men with nmHSPC with high-risk BCR now have expanded treatment choices, these results demonstrate a clear clinical benefit, including both MFS and OS, supporting the clinical practice of initiating Xtandi for these patients.' Xtandi is currently approved in more than 80 countries, including the US, Europe and Japan. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Xtandi for use in nmHSPC with high-risk BCR in November 2023, based on the EMBARK trial meeting its primary endpoint. The European Commission (EC) granted a label expansion for its use in the same patient population in April 2024. GlobalData predicts the prostate cancer market will be worth $22.62bn in 2030. Xtandi sales are set to start dropping due to the drug's patent expiring in 2026 in Europe and 2027 in the US. As a result, GlobalData predicts that sales of Xtandi will reach $5.59bn in 2025 and will drop to $2.24bn in 2030. The pharmaceutical industry is facing one of the most significant patent cliffs of the decade, with major companies preparing for substantial revenue losses, according to market analysts. A recent GlobalData report projects a sharp decline in the proportion of global drug sales protected by patents, with the figure expected to drop to just 4% by 2030. This compares to 12% in 2022 and 6% in 2024. GlobalData is the parent company of Clinical Trials Arena. "Pfizer and Astellas' Xtandi improves OS as combination therapy" was originally created and published by Clinical Trials Arena, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pfizer and Astellas' Xtandi improves OS as combination therapy
Pfizer and Astellas' Xtandi (enzalutamide) has improved overall survival (OS) in patients with non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (nmHSPC), but only as a combination therapy. First approved in 2012, the prostate cancer therapy met the secondary endpoint of OS in the Phase III EMBARK trial (NCT02319837) when combined with leuprolide, compared to placebo plus leuprolide, in patients with nmHSPC with biochemical recurrence (BCR) and high risk for metastasis. Despite this, while a favourable trend was observed, there was no statistical significance between Xtandi monotherapy and placebo or leuprolide. In the trial, patients were randomised across three arms: Xtandi plus leuprolide, placebo plus leuprolide, or Xtandi alone. This update comes two years after the companies announced the trial met its primary endpoint with a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in metastasis-free survival (MFS) for patients treated with Xtandi plus leuprolide versus placebo plus leuprolide. Although Pfizer and Astellas have not yet disclosed additional details about the OS data, they stated that full results will be presented at an upcoming medical meeting. They also noted that safety results were consistent with the known safety profile of Xtandi. Carolina Urologic Research Center's medical director Dr Neal Shore said: 'These data demonstrate that treatment with Xtandi can extend life for men with nmHSPC and high-risk BCR who have relapsed after initial curative-intent therapy with prostatectomy, radiation therapy or both, further validating EMBARK's metastasis-free survival (MFS) data. "While men with nmHSPC with high-risk BCR now have expanded treatment choices, these results demonstrate a clear clinical benefit, including both MFS and OS, supporting the clinical practice of initiating Xtandi for these patients.' Xtandi is currently approved in more than 80 countries, including the US, Europe and Japan. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Xtandi for use in nmHSPC with high-risk BCR in November 2023, based on the EMBARK trial meeting its primary endpoint. The European Commission (EC) granted a label expansion for its use in the same patient population in April 2024. GlobalData predicts the prostate cancer market will be worth $22.62bn in 2030. Xtandi sales are set to start dropping due to the drug's patent expiring in 2026 in Europe and 2027 in the US. As a result, GlobalData predicts that sales of Xtandi will reach $5.59bn in 2025 and will drop to $2.24bn in 2030. The pharmaceutical industry is facing one of the most significant patent cliffs of the decade, with major companies preparing for substantial revenue losses, according to market analysts. A recent GlobalData report projects a sharp decline in the proportion of global drug sales protected by patents, with the figure expected to drop to just 4% by 2030. This compares to 12% in 2022 and 6% in 2024. GlobalData is the parent company of Clinical Trials Arena. "Pfizer and Astellas' Xtandi improves OS as combination therapy" was originally created and published by Clinical Trials Arena, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
XTANDI® Plus Leuprolide Significantly Improves Survival Outcomes in Men with Non-Metastatic Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer with High-Risk Biochemical Recurrence
XTANDI: the first and only androgen receptor inhibitor-based regimen to demonstrate overall survival benefit in non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (nmHSPC) with high-risk biochemical recurrence (BCR) NEW YORK & TOKYO, July 10, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) and Astellas Pharma Inc. (TSE: 4503, President and CEO: Naoki Okamura, "Astellas") today announced positive topline results from the overall survival (OS) analysis from the Phase 3 EMBARK study evaluating XTANDI® (enzalutamide), in combination with leuprolide and as a monotherapy, in men with non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (nmHSPC; also known as nonmetastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer or nmCSPC) with biochemical recurrence (BCR) at high risk for metastasis. For patients treated with XTANDI plus leuprolide versus placebo plus leuprolide, EMBARK met the key secondary endpoint with a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in OS. Results also showed a favorable trend towards improved OS for patients treated with XTANDI monotherapy versus placebo plus leuprolide, however the difference did not reach statistical significance. No new safety signals were observed in the analysis, and the safety results were consistent with the demonstrated safety profile of XTANDI.1 "These data demonstrate that treatment with XTANDI can extend life for men with nmHSPC and high-risk BCR who have relapsed after initial curative-intent therapy with prostatectomy, radiation therapy or both, further validating EMBARK's metastasis-free survival (MFS) data," said Neal Shore, M.D., F.A.C.S, START Carolinas/Carolina Urologic Research Center. "While men with nmHSPC with high-risk BCR now have expanded treatment choices, these results demonstrate a clear clinical benefit, including both MFS and OS, supporting the clinical practice of initiating XTANDI for these patients." Among men who have undergone definitive prostate cancer treatment, including radical prostatectomy, radiotherapy, or both, an estimated 20-40% will experience BCR within 10 years.2 About nine out of 10 men with high-risk BCR will develop metastatic disease, and one in three will die as a result of their metastatic prostate cancer.3 "XTANDI is the only androgen receptor inhibitor-based regimen to demonstrate a survival benefit in metastatic HSPC and nmHSPC with high-risk BCR, as well as castration-resistant prostate cancer, highlighting its significant patient impact in advanced prostate cancer," said Johanna Bendell, M.D., Oncology Chief Development Officer, Pfizer. "These positive results add to the robust clinical support for the use of XTANDI and broaden clinical confidence, offering men with high-risk BCR evidence that they might live longer when they start XTANDI early." In the EMBARK study, patients were randomized to one of three study arms: XTANDI plus leuprolide, placebo plus leuprolide, or XTANDI monotherapy. An initial analysis was previously reported in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2023, demonstrating that the study met its primary endpoint with a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in MFS for patients treated with XTANDI plus leuprolide versus placebo plus leuprolide.4 The most common adverse events (occurring in ≥10% of patients) in the combination group and the leuprolide-alone group were hot flashes and fatigue. The most common adverse events in the monotherapy group were gynecomastia, hot flashes, and fatigue.4 XTANDI is currently approved in more than 80 countries, including in the United States, European Union, and Japan. "Over 1.5 million men with advanced prostate cancer around the world have benefited from treatment with XTANDI since its initial approval in 2012,"5 said Shontelle Dodson, Executive Vice President, Head of Medical Affairs, Astellas. "The scope and rigor of the EMBARK trial exemplify Astellas' and Pfizer's longstanding commitment to the prostate cancer community, and we look forward to sharing detailed findings in a future scientific forum." Detailed OS results from EMBARK will be presented at a future medical meeting. About EMBARK4The Phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-national trial enrolled 1,068 patients with non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (nmHSPC; also known as non-metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer or nmCSPC) with high-risk biochemical recurrence (BCR) at sites in the United States, Canada, Europe, South America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Patients who were considered high-risk BCR had a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) doubling time ≤ 9 months, serum testosterone ≥ 150 ng/dL (5.2 nmol/L), and screening PSA by the central laboratory ≥ 1 ng/mL if they had a radical prostatectomy (with or without radiotherapy) as primary treatment for prostate cancer or at least 2 ng/mL above the nadir if they had radiotherapy only as primary treatment for prostate cancer. Patients in the EMBARK trial were randomized to receive enzalutamide 160 mg daily plus leuprolide, enzalutamide 160 mg as monotherapy, or placebo plus leuprolide. The primary results from the EMBARK trial were published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2023. The primary endpoint of the trial was metastasis-free survival (MFS) for enzalutamide plus leuprolide versus placebo plus leuprolide. MFS is defined as the duration of time in months between randomization and the earliest objective evidence of radiographic progression by central imaging or death. For more information on the EMBARK (NCT02319837) trial go to About Non-Metastatic Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer with High-Risk Biochemical RecurrenceNon-metastatic hormone- (or castration-) sensitive prostate cancer (nmHSPC or nmCSPC) means there is no detectable evidence of the cancer spreading to distant parts of the body (metastases) with conventional radiological methods (CT/MRI) and the cancer still responds to medical or surgical treatment to lower testosterone levels.6,7 Of men who have undergone definitive prostate cancer treatment, including radical prostatectomy, radiotherapy, or both, an estimated 20-40% will experience a biochemical recurrence (BCR) within 10 years.8 About 9 out of 10 men with high-risk BCR will develop metastatic disease, and 1 in 3 will die as a result of the recurrence.8 The EMBARK trial focused on men with high-risk BCR. Per the EMBARK protocol, patients with nmHSPC with high-risk BCR are those initially treated by radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy, or both, with a PSA doubling time ≤ 9 months. Patients with nmCSPC who experience BCR after local therapy may be at a higher risk of metastases and death if their PSA doubling time is ≤ 9 months.9 About XTANDI® (enzalutamide)XTANDI (enzalutamide) is an androgen receptor signaling inhibitor. XTANDI is a standard of care and has received regulatory approvals in one or more countries around the world for use in men with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC), metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) and non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (nmHSPC) with high-risk biochemical recurrence (BCR). XTANDI is currently approved for one or more of these indications in more than 80 countries, including in the United States, European Union and Japan. Over 1.5 million patients have been treated with XTANDI globally.5 About XTANDI (enzalutamide) and U.S. Important Safety InformationXTANDI (enzalutamide) is indicated for the treatment of patients with: castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) nonmetastatic castration sensitive prostate cancer (nmCSPC) with biochemical recurrence at high risk for metastasis (high-risk BCR) Important Safety Information Warnings and Precautions Seizure occurred in 0.6% of patients receiving XTANDI in eight randomized clinical trials. In a study of patients with predisposing factors for seizure, 2.2% of XTANDI-treated patients experienced a seizure. It is unknown whether anti-epileptic medications will prevent seizures with XTANDI. Patients in the study had one or more of the following predisposing factors: use of medications that may lower the seizure threshold, history of traumatic brain or head injury, history of cerebrovascular accident or transient ischemic attack, and Alzheimer's disease, meningioma, or leptomeningeal disease from prostate cancer, unexplained loss of consciousness within the last 12 months, history of seizure, presence of a space occupying lesion of the brain, history of arteriovenous malformation, or history of brain infection. Advise patients of the risk of developing a seizure while taking XTANDI and of engaging in any activity where sudden loss of consciousness could cause serious harm to themselves or others. Permanently discontinue XTANDI in patients who develop a seizure during treatment. Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) There have been reports of PRES in patients receiving XTANDI. PRES is a neurological disorder that can present with rapidly evolving symptoms including seizure, headache, lethargy, confusion, blindness, and other visual and neurological disturbances, with or without associated hypertension. A diagnosis of PRES requires confirmation by brain imaging, preferably MRI. Discontinue XTANDI in patients who develop PRES. Hypersensitivity reactions, including edema of the face (0.5%), tongue (0.1%), or lip (0.1%) have been observed with XTANDI in eight randomized clinical trials. Pharyngeal edema has been reported in post-marketing cases. Advise patients who experience any symptoms of hypersensitivity to temporarily discontinue XTANDI and promptly seek medical care. Permanently discontinue XTANDI for serious hypersensitivity reactions. Ischemic Heart Disease In the combined data of five randomized, placebo-controlled clinical studies, ischemic heart disease occurred more commonly in patients on the XTANDI arm compared to patients on the placebo arm (3.5% vs 2%). Grade 3-4 ischemic events occurred in 1.8% of patients on XTANDI versus 1.1% on placebo. Ischemic events led to death in 0.4% of patients on XTANDI compared to 0.1% on placebo. Monitor for signs and symptoms of ischemic heart disease. Optimize management of cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia. Discontinue XTANDI for Grade 3-4 ischemic heart disease. Falls and Fractures occurred in patients receiving XTANDI. Evaluate patients for fracture and fall risk. Monitor and manage patients at risk for fractures according to established treatment guidelines and consider use of bone-targeted agents. In the combined data of five randomized, placebo-controlled clinical studies, falls occurred in 12% of patients treated with XTANDI compared to 6% of patients treated with placebo. Fractures occurred in 13% of patients treated with XTANDI and in 6% of patients treated with placebo. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity The safety and efficacy of XTANDI have not been established in females. XTANDI can cause fetal harm and loss of pregnancy when administered to a pregnant female. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with XTANDI and for 3 months after the last dose of XTANDI. Dysphagia or Choking Severe dysphagia or choking, including events that could be life-threatening requiring medical intervention or fatal, can occur due to XTANDI product size. Advise patients to take each capsule or tablet whole with a sufficient amount of water to ensure that all medication is successfully swallowed. Consider use of a smaller tablet size of XTANDI in patients who have difficulty swallowing. Discontinue XTANDI for patients who cannot swallow capsules or tablets. Adverse Reactions (ARs)In the data from the five randomized placebo-controlled trials, the most common ARs (≥ 10%) that occurred more frequently (≥ 2% over placebo) in XTANDI-treated patients were musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, hot flush, constipation, decreased appetite, diarrhea, hypertension, hemorrhage, fall, fracture, and headache. In the bicalutamide-controlled study, the most common ARs (≥ 10%) reported in XTANDI-treated patients were asthenia/fatigue, back pain, musculoskeletal pain, hot flush, hypertension, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, and weight loss. In EMBARK, the placebo-controlled study of nonmetastatic CSPC (nmCSPC) with high-risk biochemical recurrence (BCR) patients, Grade 3 or higher adverse reactions during the total duration of treatment were reported in 46% of patients treated with XTANDI plus leuprolide, 50% of patients receiving XTANDI as a single agent, and 43% of patients receiving placebo plus leuprolide. Permanent treatment discontinuation due to adverse reactions during the total duration of treatment as the primary reason was reported in 21% of patients treated with XTANDI plus leuprolide, 18% of patients receiving XTANDI as a single agent, and 10% of patients receiving placebo plus leuprolide. Lab Abnormalities: Lab abnormalities that occurred in ≥ 5% of patients, and more frequently (> 2%) in the XTANDI arm compared to placebo in the pooled, randomized, placebo-controlled studies are hemoglobin decrease, neutrophil count decreased, white blood cell decreased, hyperglycemia, hypermagnesemia, hyponatremia, hypophosphatemia, and hypercalcemia. Hypertension: In the combined data from five randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials, hypertension was reported in 14.2% of XTANDI patients and 7.4% of placebo patients. Hypertension led to study discontinuation in < 1% of patients in each arm. Drug Interactions Effect of Other Drugs on XTANDI Avoid coadministration with strong CYP2C8 inhibitors. If coadministration cannot be avoided, reduce the dosage of coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inducers. If coadministration cannot be avoided, increase the dosage of XTANDI. Effect of XTANDI on Other Drugs Avoid coadministration with certain CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 substrates for which minimal decrease in concentration may lead to therapeutic failure of the substrate. If coadministration cannot be avoided, increase the dosage of these substrates in accordance with their Prescribing Information. In cases where active metabolites are formed, there may be increased exposure to the active metabolites. Please see Full Prescribing Information for additional safety information. About AstellasAstellas Pharma Inc. is a pharmaceutical company conducting business in more than 70 countries around the world. We are promoting the Focus Area Approach that is designed to identify opportunities for the continuous creation of new drugs to address diseases with high unmet medical needs by focusing on Biology and Modality. Furthermore, we are also looking beyond our foundational Rx focus to create Rx+® healthcare solutions that combine our expertise and knowledge with cutting-edge technology in different fields of external partners. Through these efforts, Astellas stands at the forefront of healthcare change to turn innovative science into VALUE for patients. For more information, please visit our website at About Pfizer OncologyAt Pfizer Oncology, we are at the forefront of a new era in cancer care. Our industry-leading portfolio and extensive pipeline includes three core mechanisms of action to attack cancer from multiple angles, including small molecules, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and bispecific antibodies, including other immune-oncology biologics. We are focused on delivering transformative therapies in some of the world's most common cancers, including breast cancer, genitourinary cancer, hematology-oncology, and thoracic cancers, which includes lung cancer. Driven by science, we are committed to accelerating breakthroughs to help people with cancer live better and longer lives. About the Pfizer/Astellas CollaborationIn October 2009, Medivation, Inc., which is now part of Pfizer (NYSE: PFE), and Astellas (TSE: 4503) entered into a global agreement to jointly develop and commercialize XTANDI (enzalutamide). The companies jointly commercialize XTANDI in the United States, and Astellas has responsibility for manufacturing and all additional regulatory filings globally, as well as commercializing XTANDI outside the United States. Astellas Forward-Looking StatementIn this press release, statements made with respect to current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements about the future performance of Astellas. These statements are based on management's current assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: (i) changes in general economic conditions and in laws and regulations, relating to pharmaceutical markets, (ii) currency exchange rate fluctuations, (iii) delays in new product launches, (iv) the inability of Astellas to market existing and new products effectively, (v) the inability of Astellas to continue to effectively research and develop products accepted by customers in highly competitive markets, and (vi) infringements of Astellas' intellectual property rights by third parties. Information about pharmaceutical products (including products currently in development), which is included in this press release is not intended to constitute an advertisement or medical advice. Pfizer Disclosure NoticeThe information contained in this release is as of July 10, 2025. Pfizer assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this release as the result of new information or future events or developments. This release contains forward-looking information about Pfizer Oncology, XTANDI (enzalutamide) and an overall survival analysis from the Phase 3 EMBARK study evaluating XTANDI in combination with leuprolide and as a monotherapy, in men with non-metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer with biochemical recurrence at high risk for metastasis, including their potential benefits, that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties regarding the commercial success of XTANDI; the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including the ability to meet anticipated clinical endpoints, commencement and/or completion dates for clinical trials, regulatory submission dates, regulatory approval dates and/or launch dates, as well as the possibility of unfavorable new clinical data and further analyses of existing clinical data; the risk that clinical trial data are subject to differing interpretations and assessments by regulatory authorities; whether regulatory authorities will be satisfied with the design of and results from the clinical studies; whether and when drug applications for XTANDI may be filed in particular jurisdictions for any potential indications; whether and when regulatory authorities in any jurisdictions may approve any such applications that may be pending or filed for XTANDI, which will depend on a myriad of factors, including making a determination as to whether the product's benefits outweigh its known risks and determination of the product's efficacy and, if approved, whether XTANDI for any potential indication will be commercially successful; decisions by regulatory authorities impacting labeling, manufacturing processes, safety, and/or other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of XTANDI; dependence on the efforts and funding by Astellas Pharma Inc. for the development, manufacturing and commercialization of XTANDI; risks and uncertainties related to issued or future executive orders or other new, or changes in, laws or regulations; uncertainties regarding the impact of COVID-19 on Pfizer's business, operations and financial results; and competitive developments. A further description of risks and uncertainties can be found in Pfizer's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, and in its subsequent reports on Form 10-Q, including in the sections thereof captioned "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Information and Factors That May Affect Future Results", as well as in its subsequent reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and available at and Astellas Cautionary NotesIn this press release, statements made with respect to current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements about the future performance of Astellas. These statements are based on management's current assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: (i) changes in general economic conditions and in laws and regulations, relating to pharmaceutical markets, (ii) currency exchange rate fluctuations, (iii) delays in new product launches, (iv) the inability of Astellas to market existing and new products effectively, (v) the inability of Astellas to continue to effectively research and develop products accepted by customers in highly competitive markets, and (vi) infringements of Astellas' intellectual property rights by third parties. Information about pharmaceutical products (including products currently in development) which is included in this press release is not intended to constitute an advertisement or medical advice. References 1 Astellas and Pfizer. Data on File, EMBARK results, July 2025. 2 Ward JF, Moul JW. Rising prostate-specific antigen after primary prostate cancer therapy. Nat Clin Pract Urol. 2005 Apr;2(4):174-82. doi: 10.1038/ncpuro0145. PMID: 16474760. 3Antonarakis, Emmanuel S et al. The natural history of metastatic progression in men with prostate-specific antigen recurrence after radical prostatectomy: long-term follow-up. BJU international vol. 109,1 (2012): 32-9. doi:10.1111/j.1464-410X.2011.10422 4Freedland, Stephen J. et al. "Improved Outcomes with Enzalutamide in Biochemically Recurrent Prostate Cancer." N Engl J Med 2023;389:1453-1465. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2303974 5Astellas. Data on File. XTANDI patient. June 2025. Prostate Cancer: Types of Treatment (12-2022). Accessed June 16, 2025. 7 American Society of Clinical Oncology. ASCO Answers: Prostate Cancer (2023). 8 Ward JF, Moul JW. Rising prostate-specific antigen after primary prostate cancer therapy. Nat Clin Pract Urol. 2005 Apr;2(4):174-82. doi: 10.1038/ncpuro0145. PMID: 16474760. 9 Paller, Channing J et al. "Management of patients with biochemical recurrence after local therapy for prostate cancer." Hematology/oncology clinics of North America vol. 27,6 (2013): 1205-19, viii. doi:10.1016/ Category: Medicines View source version on Contacts Pfizer Media Contact: +1 (212) 733-1225PfizerMediaRelations@ Pfizer Investor Contact: +1 (212) 733-4848IR@ Astellas Contact: +1 (847) Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
