In a groundbreaking development, Pfizer has announced promising results from a mid-stage study indicating that their experimental drug, ponsegromab, may aid cancer patients in regaining weight, offering new hope for the treatment of the dangerous muscle-wasting disease known as cachexia.
Cachexia, a condition characterized by severe weight loss, muscle atrophy, and fat loss, often affects cancer patients due to alterations in metabolism and appetite. This condition can weaken the body and, in some cases, diminish the effectiveness of cancer treatments. The disease is particularly prevalent in advanced stages of cancer, with approximately 80% of late-stage patients experiencing its effects. Currently, there are no approved drugs for treating cachexia.
The Experimental Drug: Ponsegromab
Pfizer’s ponsegromab is a monoclonal antibody designed to block GDF-15, a protein expressed by the human body under extreme stress. High levels of GDF-15 in cancer patients are believed to be associated with loss of appetite and nausea. Pfizer’s scientists hypothesized that blocking the expression of this protein could prevent the onset of cachexia.
Pfizer’s Growth Strategy in Cancer Treatments
The drug is an internally discovered asset for Pfizer, which has been actively seeking to expand its portfolio of cancer treatments to drive its next phase of growth. Last year, the company acquired Seagen Inc., a cancer drug manufacturer, for a staggering $43 billion. With sales of its COVID-19 vaccine continuing to decline, investors have been eager for positive news from the company.
Study Results
In a phase 2 study, Pfizer enrolled 187 cancer patients with high levels of GDF-15 to test the impact of ponsegromab on weight gain. The participants suffered from non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, or colorectal cancer, with approximately 75% in the fourth stage of the disease.
According to results published on Saturday in the New England Journal of Medicine, patients on the highest dose of 400 milligrams saw their weight increase by approximately 5.6% over 12 weeks. The study also showed improvements in the participants’ appetite, physical activity levels, and muscle mass. These findings will be presented simultaneously at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress in Barcelona.
Potential Benefits for Patients
Charlotte Allerton, Pfizer’s head of discovery and early development, said in an interview that the company hopes ponsegromab will help patients gain weight, enabling them to tolerate more treatments and become more active, which of course will improve their overall health.
Future Plans and Regulatory Discussions
Pfizer is currently in discussions with regulatory authorities regarding the development plan, with the aim to commence registration studies in 2025. The company is also testing ponsegromab in patients with heart failure and high levels of GDF-15. Allerton noted that Pfizer is exploring other conditions associated with elevated GDF-15, such as chronic kidney disease.
Conclusion
The success of this mid-stage study marks a significant step forward in the treatment of cachexia, a condition that has long been challenging for both patients and healthcare providers. If approved, ponsegromab could provide a vital tool in the fight against cancer, improving the quality of life for countless patients worldwide. As Pfizer continues its development efforts, the potential benefits of this drug are eagerly awaited by the medical community and cancer patients alike.
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