Active Biotech and Ipsen discontinue the development of prostate cancer drug tasquinimod

Active Biotech and Ipsen have taken the decision to discontinue the development of tasquinimod in prostate cancer.

The companies also released top line results for the 10TASQ10 study- a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, global Phase III clinical trial evaluating tasquinimod in patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) who have not yet received chemotherapy. While the study showed that tasquinimod reduced the risk of radiographic cancer progression or death compared to placebo (rPFS, HR=0.69, CI 95%: 0.60 – 0.80) in patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) who have not received chemotherapy, tasquinimod did not extend overall survival (OS, HR=1.09, CI 95%: 0.94 – 1.28).

Efficacy results together with preliminary safety data did not support the continuation of development of tasquinimod

Efficacy results together with preliminary safety data did not support positive benefit risk balance in this population. Full results will be presented at an upcoming scientific conference.

Marc de Garidel, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ipsen, stated: “We are disappointed for prostate cancer patients. Ipsen remains strongly committed to oncology. We are grateful to the clinicians, caregivers, patients and their families who were involved in this study.”

Professor Tomas Leanderson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Active Biotech, stated: “The outcome of the 10TASQ10 study is a major disappointment based on the promising phase II results. However, the data at hand is unambiguous and cannot motivate further development of tasquinimod in this patient population. I want to thank the clinicians, caregivers, patients and their families who were involved in this study.”

Ipsen and Active Biotech are in communication with trial investigators, ethics committees and the relevant regulatory authorities, to provide them with updated and current information in compliance with local regulations. The companies are working with trial investigators and local regulatory authorities to ensure that patients who participated in the tasquinimod trials are transitioned to appropriate therapies so that trial participants receive appropriate care.

For more information about Active Biotech, please visit www.activebiotech.com.

For more information about Ipsen, please visit www.ipsen.com.