Positive Results on SPPI's Oncology Products
Spectrum Pharmaceuticals (SPPI) announced positive results from investigator-sponsored studies of Marqibo and Folotyn. These results were presented at the 55th annual meeting of the American Society of Hematology (ASH).
Spectrum Pharma announced long-term results from a phase II study (n=60) on Marqibo substituted for non-liposomal vincristine in CHOP (a chemotherapy treatment regimen) with or without Roche/Biogen Idec Inc.’s (RHHBY/BIIB) Rituxan (rituximab) for patients with untreated aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.
Results from the study revealed an overall response rate of 95% and a complete response rate of 90%. Moreover, 10-year progression free survival (PFS) rate of 64% and overall survival (:OS) rate of 87% were also observed. The OS was 91%, 10-year PFS was 48%, and 10-year OS was 65% in case of patients of more than 60 years of age.
We remind investors that in late third quarter 2013, Spectrum Pharma launched Marqibo in the U.S. The drug is approved for the treatment of adults suffering from Philadelphia chromosome-negative (Ph-) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Spectrum Pharma gained worldwide rights to Marqibo following the completion of the acquisition of California-based Talon Therapeutics in Jul 2013. The addition of Marqibo in Spectrum Pharma’s portfolio is expected to boost the company’s top-line further.
Spectrum Pharma also announced results from an analysis (n=34) of peripheral t-cell lymphoma (:PTCL) subtype by race and geography utilizing the comprehensive oncology measures for peripheral t-cell lymphoma treatment (:COMPLETE) dataset. The study evaluated patients treated with cyclophosphamide, etoposide, vincristine and prednisone (CEOPF) alternating with Folotyn as a front line therapy for patients suffering from PTCL.
Results showed that 50% of the patients in the study achieved a complete response rate. Initial analysis revealed an overall response rate of 70% and a complete response rate of 45%.
We note that Folotyn is available in the U.S. for the treatment of patients suffering from relapsed or refractory PTCL. Spectrum Pharma reported Folotyn sales of $10.5 million for the third quarter of 2013.
Spectrum Pharma currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). A better-ranked stock is Actelion Ltd. (ALIOF), carrying Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
Read the Full Research Report on RHHBY
Read the Full Research Report on ALIOF
Read the Full Research Report on SPPI
Read the Full Research Report on BIIB
Zacks Investment Research
