Merck reports positive results in late-stage trial of Keytruda as treatment for bladder cancer

 Merck & Co. Inc. (MRK) said Thursday a late-stage trial of its cancer treatment Keytruda met its main goal of disease-free survival for patients with advanced bladder cancer. The Rahway, N.J.-based drug giant said Keytruda "demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in DFS versus observation in these patients after surgery." The Phase 3 trial will continue to evaluate a dual primary endpoint of overall survival. "Up to half of patients with bladder cancer who undergo surgery will experience recurrence within a year, underscoring the need for new treatment options in the adjuvant setting," said Dr. Marjorie Green, senior vice president and head of late-stage oncology, global clinical development, Merck Research Laboratories. The stock was slightly higher premarket but is down 8% in the year to date, while the S&P 500 has gained 11%.

https://www.morningstar.com/news/marketwatch/20231005240/merck-reports-positive-results-in-late-stage-trial-of-keytruda-as-treatment-for-bladder-cancer