Merck's Keytruda Chemo-Combo Data Has Big Implications For Future Of Immuno-Oncology

Merck’s strong Phase II data testing Keytruda with chemotherapy in first-line lung cancer may put pressure on future IO/IO combinations when it comes to toxicity, efficacy and – importantly – cost.

Merck & Co. Inc. presented the first positive Phase II data comparing the PD-1 inhibitor Keytruda (pembrolizumab) in combination with chemotherapy versus chemotherapy alone at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) meeting Oct. 9 and the data could raise the bar for future immuno-oncology combinations.

While the data are early, the positive results seen in the KEYNOTE-021 study suggest the combination of Keytruda with chemotherapy...

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