Takeda Pharmaceuticals Stops Development Of Prostate Cancer Drug

Takeda Pharmaceuticals, based out of Japan, has announced that it plans to stop the development of its prostate cancer drug. The drug, orteronel (TAK-700), has not met expectations in two Phase III trials run by the company. Orteronel is classified as a nonsteroidal, selective inhibitor of 17,20-lyase, which is an enzyme that plays a critical part in the production of steroidal hormones.

Takeda has announced that the drug missed its primary end points of overall survival for patients. The researchers found that, while patients with metastatic, castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) could lengthen the time that they lived before the cancer progressed by taking orteronel in combination with prednisone, the drug combination did not extend the overall survival of these patients.

Takeda released a statement on the developments. “After careful consideration of the data from these trials, the company has determined that the drug has not demonstrated a clinical profile sufficient to move forward in mCRPC, given the availability of other therapies. Takeda remains committed to oncology and to the treatment of prostate cancer.” The company also added that patients who were enrolled in the study are being transitioned to appropriate therapies.

Takeda said that previous studies of the drug did not show any safety issues. The researchers did find that orteronel used in combination with prednisone was more effective in treating prostate cancer than prednisone alone. Takeda also stated that the company would remain in communication with regulatory agencies in order to provide them with the most current information on the drug’s performance.