Can Erbitux Make Inroads In First-line Colon Cancer With Approved Companion Dx In Tow?

Erbitux wins FDA approval for first-line metastatic colorectal cancer negative for KRAS mutations detected with a companion diagnostic specifically approved for the drug. In theory, earlier use could help shore up sales. But the drug faces a tough competitor in the dominant Avastin and new products are on the near horizon.

Beating rival EGFR inhibitor Vectibix to the punch, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co./Eli Lilly & Co. have secured an approval for Erbitux in newly diagnosed KRAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer patients with a companion diagnostic. Whether the maneuver will help the drug reverse course on flagging sales or improve its competitive position against Roche’s market-leading Avastin remains to be seen.

On July 6, FDA approved both a new indication for Erbitux in combination with chemotherapy in newly diagnosed mCRC patients...

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