The treatment landscape for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) continues to evolve, and the latest data from Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen Pharmaceuticals offers fresh hope. Their combination therapy; Rybrevant (amivantamab) alongside Lazertinib, has demonstrated a long-term survival benefit, raising the bar for first-line treatments targeting EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
Presented at the 2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer, the three-year follow-up data showed that 61% of patients treated with Rybrevant and Lazertinib were still alive, compared to 53% of those on AstraZeneca’s widely used Tagrisso (osimertinib). This combination also exhibited improved disease control in the central nervous system, a critical concern for many NSCLC patients.
Dr. Shirish Gadgeel, a key investigator in the study, expressed his optimism about the results, saying,
“By combining the multi-targeted mechanism of Rybrevant with Lazertinib, we are advancing a chemotherapy-free regimen for the first-line treatment of patients with EGFR-mutant NSCLC. This approach blocks EGFR and MET pathways and leverages the immune system, offering patients an opportunity for prolonged benefits.”
His emphasis on the dual-target mechanism suggests this approach could set a new standard for EGFR-mutant lung cancer treatment.
Johnson & Johnson remains confident in the future of this treatment. Mark Wildgust, Vice President of Oncology Global Medical Affairs at Janssen, highlighted the company’s commitment to further improving patient outcomes:
“We’re deeply committed to exploring new frontiers in targeted therapies for lung cancer, and this data reinforces the significant potential of Rybrevant as part of the future of precision medicine”
This trial data marks a milestone in the development of targeted, non-chemotherapy regimens for advanced NSCLC. As results from the MARIPOSA study continue to emerge, Rybrevant’s consistent benefit profile, coupled with the clear survival advantage it offers, could reshape treatment strategies for patients who have historically had limited options.
