What's Happening?
ADC Therapeutics has experienced a significant drop in its share price following the release of results from its phase 3 LOTIS-5 trial of Zynlonta, an antibody-drug conjugate. The trial, which involved 440 patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse
large B-cell lymphoma, reported 27 deaths in the study arm compared to nine in the control group. The study arm received Zynlonta paired with Roche’s Rituxan, while the control group received Rituxan with chemotherapies gemcitabine and oxaliplatin. The deaths, primarily among patients aged 75 and older, were attributed to infections. Despite achieving its primary endpoint of progression-free survival, the trial's adverse outcomes have overshadowed these results, leading to a 52% drop in ADC's share price.
Why It's Important?
The trial results are significant as they impact ADC Therapeutics' financial standing and the future of Zynlonta, its only commercial product. The adverse outcomes raise concerns about the safety profile of Zynlonta, potentially affecting its marketability and the company's plans for full FDA approval. The financial implications are substantial, given that Zynlonta generated $74 million in sales last year. The trial's results could influence investor confidence and the company's ability to secure further funding. Additionally, the findings may prompt regulatory scrutiny and affect the broader market for antibody-drug conjugates.
What's Next?
ADC Therapeutics plans to meet with the FDA in August to discuss the trial results and intends to submit for approval in the fourth quarter of this year. The company is also conducting the LOTIS-7 trial, investigating Zynlonta in combination with Roche’s bispecific antibody Columvi for B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The outcomes of these discussions and trials will be crucial in determining the future of Zynlonta and ADC's market position. Stakeholders, including investors and healthcare providers, will be closely monitoring these developments.
