LIBRETTO-431 study: Lilly’s Retevmo emerges as potential first-line treatment for RET fusion-positive NSCLC

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) has unveiled top-line results from the LIBRETTO-431 study, which focused on the assessment of Retevmo against platinum-based chemotherapy plus pemetrexed in patients diagnosed with RET fusion-positive advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The findings showcased a notable improvement in progression-free survival (PFS), a primary objective of the study.

Study Design and Observations

Designed as a randomized, open-label Phase 3 trial, LIBRETTO-431 set Retevmo against platinum-based chemotherapy options, highlighting the drug’s effectiveness and safety. This is the inaugural randomized trial juxtaposing a targeted therapy with a PD-1 inhibitor plus chemotherapy in a biomarker-selected group of patients.

Eli Lilly Announces Retevmo’s Positive Results for Advanced NSCLC in LIBRETTO-431 Study. Photo courtesy of Momoneymoproblemz/Wikimedia Commons.

Expert Insights on Retevmo’s Efficacy

“The LIBRETTO-431 trial is groundbreaking in identifying the optimal initial treatment for advanced RET fusion-positive NSCLC patients. The outcomes hint at Retevmo being integrated as a primary standard of care,” shared David Hyman, Chief Medical Officer at Loxo@Lilly. He further accentuated the necessity of comprehensive genomic testing before determining treatment for NSCLC patients.

Background Data and Future Outlook

The results of the LIBRETTO-431 study are built upon the foundation set by LIBRETTO-001, an expansive clinical trial focusing on patients with RET-driven malignancies. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a dominant diagnosis, accounting for a significant 85% of all lung cancer cases in the U.S. With the completion of the LIBRETTO-431 trial, full results will soon be disclosed at upcoming medical conferences and submitted for peer review.

A Closer Look at Retevmo (selpercatinib)

Retevmo (selpercatinib), earlier identified as LOXO-292, is a potent and selective RET kinase inhibitor known for its effect on the central nervous system. It holds the potential to impact both cancerous and healthy cells, leading to possible side effects.