Opdualag Combination Therapy Shows Consistent Results Across Subgroups

Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) has presented a new analysis of its drug Opdualag, a combination therapy of nivolumab and relatlimab. The results for this first-in-class LAG-3 combination drug, intended for patients with previously untreated, unresectable, or metastatic melanoma, have shown consistency across all studied patient subgroups.

The analysis, derived from data from the RELATIVITY-047 trial, specifically focused on various patient stratifications. The findings supported Opdualag's advantage over nivolumab alone in terms of progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and objective response rate (ORR). Benefits were particularly noted in patients with high tumor burden, M1c metastatic stage, elevated LDH levels, or good performance status (ECOG 0-1).

Opdualag received FDA approval in March for the treatment of previously untreated melanoma patients. The drug doubled the time patients lived without disease progression compared to Opdivo alone, without any added safety concerns. These subgroup analysis results reinforce the drug's benefits even in patient populations that typically have a poorer prognosis.

Bristol Myers Squibb is currently investigating the Opdualag combination for other indications, including adjuvant treatment after surgery and as a second-line therapy for colorectal cancer. The company aims to solidify its position as a first-line treatment for melanoma and expand the drug's market share.