Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is a drug that has shown significant efficacy in the treatment of various types of cancer, including bladder cancer. However, it is important to note that the determination of whether Keytruda is the leading drug for bladder cancer depends on various factors, including the specific stage and characteristics of the cancer, as well as individual patient factors.
Keytruda is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that works by blocking the PD-1 protein on immune cells, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells [1]. It has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced or metastatic bladder cancer that has progressed after platinum-containing chemotherapy [2].
In terms of clinical trials and research, Keytruda has shown promising results in the treatment of bladder cancer. A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that Keytruda improved overall survival compared to chemotherapy in patients with advanced urothelial bladder cancer [3]. This study led to the FDA approval of Keytruda for this indication.
While Keytruda has shown efficacy in bladder cancer treatment, it is not the only drug available. Avelumab (Bavencio) is another immunotherapy drug that has been approved by the FDA for the maintenance treatment of locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma that has not progressed after first-line platinum-containing chemotherapy [4]. Avelumab works by targeting the PD-L1 protein on cancer cells, similar to Keytruda.
In conclusion, Keytruda is a leading drug for the treatment of bladder cancer, particularly in patients who have progressed after platinum-containing chemotherapy. However, it is important to consider individual patient factors and the specific stage and characteristics of the cancer when determining the most appropriate treatment option. Other drugs, such as avelumab, also play a significant role in the treatment of bladder cancer.
Sources:
[1] Drug Patent Watch. Keytruda. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/biologics/tradename/KEYTRUDA
[2] Keytruda. Advanced Urothelial (Bladder) Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.keytruda.com/advanced-urothelial-bladder-cancer/
[3] Powles, T., et al. (2017). Pembrolizumab versus chemotherapy for bladder cancer. The New England Journal of Medicine, 376(22), 2203-2214.
[4] National Cancer Institute. Avelumab in bladder cancer: maintenance therapy after chemotherapy. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2020/avelumab-bladder-cancer-maintenance-therapy