Merck Advances Zilovertamab Vedotin with 100% Response in First-Line Lymphoma Treatment

Merck's Phase II results for their investigational antibody-drug conjugate, zilovertamab vedotin, show remarkable promise in the treatment of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The study, presented at the American Society of Hematology meeting, revealed a 100% complete response rate in patients administered the drug at a 1.75 mg/kg dose, alongside the R-CHP regimen. However, at higher doses, fluctuations were observed, culminating in a 97.2% overall complete response rate across dosages[1][2]. The promising efficacy demonstrated at the lowest dose level has prompted Merck to advance this cohort to a Phase III trial, which will assess the drug’s efficacy in comparison to the standard R-CHOP regimen, focusing on progression-free survival[2]. Despite these positive outcomes, safety concerns due to treatment-related adverse events, including serious toxicities, were noted, necessitating careful consideration in the ongoing development process[1].