Eisai reports positive data from comparative Halaven study

Eisai has announced data from a phase III trial showing that its breast cancer drug Halaven can deliver a better performance than an established alternative therapy.

During Study 301, it was demonstrated that Eisai's product was able to offer significantly greater improvements in overall quality of life than its rival among patients with metastatic breast cancer who had been previously treated with anthracyclines and taxanes.

It performed better in terms of key measures such as cognitive functioning, nausea and vomiting and diarrhoea, though the other product retained an edge in other ways, such as emotional functioning and systemic side effects.

This data will contribute to a better understanding of how different breast cancer therapies can affect the quality of life of patients in varying ways.

The company said: "Eisai believes that the findings will serve as a valuable reference for making informed decisions when considering which treatment to undergo."

Last month, Eisai applied to the European Medicines Agency for an expanded indication for Halaven, which would allow it to be used by breast cancer patients at an earlier stage of the disease's development.