Bayer HealthCare, Onyx Pharmaceuticals Present Results For Breast Cancer Trial

Bayer HealthCare and Onyx Pharmaceuticals have announced the results for phase II trial in advanced metastatic breast cancer. The study met its primary endpoint of progression-free survival. It evaluated Nexavar (sorafenib) tablets in combination with the oral chemotherapeutic, capecitabine, in patients with locally advanced or metastatic HER-2 negative breast cancer.

Study findings demonstrated that the median progression-free survival was extended in patients treated with Nexavar and capecitabine, as compared to patients receiving capecitabine and placebo. In the trial, the safety and tolerability of the combination did not show any new or unexpected toxicities.

Kemal Malik, executive committee member and chief medical officer of Bayer HealthCare, said: “Based on these encouraging data, Bayer and Onyx are evaluating various strategies for Nexavar in breast cancer. Nexavar is already benefiting patients worldwide with liver cancer and kidney cancer. Despite significant treatment advances, breast cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer death in women. We hope to establish Nexavar as an important new treatment option for patients with this devastating disease.”