ImClone Systems Inc (formerly IMCL)

[bio_guyo]

Sure, the PACCE trial results thus far have not yet killed Vectibix, but they've made it clear the drug is unlikely to meet its other endpoints. Remember that increases in response rates have been historically the easiest metric for efficacy of the various EGFR-directed therapies. Also remember that Erbitux in combination with chemotherapy was able to increase response rates in first-line CRC in every phase II trial conducted so far. Finally, remember there is evidence Erbitux increases response rates when given along with Avastin and chemotherapy.

Without coincident evidence of efficacy across all 3 of its study endpoints, PACCE is unlikely to drive any usage of Vectibix in first-line CRC. Couple this with its lack of effect on overall survival in late-stage CRC, and the delay in the HNC clinical program, and the picture begins to form that Vectibix simply isn't a very efficacious product.