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Pfizer’s Lung Cancer Drug

  • 01 Jun 2024

According to research report released on May 31st, 2024, Pfizer’s lung cancer drug can extend life for patients with a rare form of the disease for years longer than other drugs.

Key Points

  • Non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) make up approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases. Among these, ALK-positive cancers represent around 4%, affecting over 70,000 people annually.
  • ALK-positive lung cancers are particularly prone to spreading to the brain, with approximately 25% of patients developing brain metastases within the first two years after diagnosis.
  • According to trial results, the drug has been shown to significantly reduce tumor progression and improve survival outcomes for individuals in the advanced stages of a rare form of the disease.
  • Lorlatinib, which is already approved and available under the brand name Lorbrena in the United States penetrates the blood-brain barrier better than prior generation medicines, and works to inhibit tumor mutations that drive resistance.
  • Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths globally.