Genmab Reports Positive Phase 2 Results for Epcoritamab in Outpatient DLBCL Treatment

What's Happening?

Genmab has announced updated results from its Phase 2 EPCORE NHL-6 trial, evaluating epcoritamab monotherapy in an outpatient setting for patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The trial demonstrated a 64.3% overall response rate and a 47.6% complete response rate in patients treated after one prior line of systemic therapy. The study also showed that 92% of patients received the first full dose of epcoritamab in an outpatient setting, with manageable adverse events. These findings suggest the feasibility of administering epcoritamab outside of hospital settings, potentially increasing accessibility for patients.

Why It's Important?

The ability to administer epcoritamab in an outpatient setting could significantly impact the treatment landscape for DLBCL, a common and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This approach may reduce the need for hospital resources and make treatment more accessible to patients, particularly in community settings. The positive response rates observed in the trial highlight epcoritamab's potential as a core therapy for B-cell malignancies, offering a new option for patients who have exhausted other treatments. This development underscores the ongoing innovation in cancer therapeutics and the potential for bispecific antibodies to transform treatment paradigms.

What's Next?

Genmab, in collaboration with AbbVie, will continue to evaluate epcoritamab in various clinical settings, including ongoing Phase 3 trials. The company aims to expand the use of epcoritamab across different lines of therapy and B-cell malignancies. Regulatory approvals for additional indications are being pursued, which could further establish epcoritamab as a versatile treatment option. The outcomes of these efforts will be crucial in determining the drug's market potential and its role in the broader oncology landscape.