Novartis' Canakinumab Fails To Improve Survival In Late-Stage Lung Cancer Trial

Novartis AG (NYSE: NVS) reported data from the Phase 3 CANOPY-2 study evaluating canakinumab (ACZ885) in advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

• The study did not meet the primary endpoint of overall survival (OS).
• The trial evaluated canakinumab plus chemotherapy agent docetaxel in adults with NSCLC whose disease progressed while on or after previous platinum-based chemotherapy and PD-(L)1 inhibitor immunotherapy.
• Canakinumab development program continues with two Phase 3 CANOPY trials, evaluating the antibody in first-line and adjuvant settings.
• Novartis and CANOPY-2 investigators will analyze the study data and are expected to submit the findings for presentation at an upcoming medical meeting.
• Canakinumab is a human monoclonal antibody that could enhance anti-tumor immune response and reduce tumor cell proliferation, survival, and invasiveness.
• Price Action: NVS shares are up 0.5% at $84.16 in premarket trading on the last check Tuesday.