Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

Merck's KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX Approved for PD-L1+ Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer

Key highlights
  • KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX approved for PD-L1+ platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.
  • Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 trial showed 28% reduced disease progression risk.
  • Trial results presented at 2025 ESMO Congress.
  • KEYTRUDA QLEX contraindicated for hypersensitivity to berahyaluronidase alfa.

FDA Approval

The U.S. FDA has approved KEYTRUDA and KEYTRUDA QLEX for adults with PD-L1+ platinum-resistant ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal carcinoma. These approvals are based on the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-B96 trial results.

Trial Results

The KEYNOTE-B96 trial demonstrated that the KEYTRUDA regimen reduced the risk of disease progression or death by 28% and the risk of death by 24% compared to placebo plus paclitaxel, with or without bevacizumab. The trial results were presented at the 2025 European Society for Medical Oncology Congress.

Patient Impact

For patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, the disease can limit treatment options. The FDA approvals offer new possibilities for patients who have been previously treated with standard platinum-based therapies.

Safety Information

KEYTRUDA QLEX is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to berahyaluronidase alfa. The treatments are associated with severe and potentially fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions, including pneumonitis, colitis, and hepatitis, among others.