International doctors and researchers have reported results they describe as "first of its kind" from a clinical trial of a new injectable cancer drug called amibantaumab.
The study, conducted in 11 countries, included patients with advanced head and neck cancer who were no longer responding to standard treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
According to the data, out of a total of 102 patients, 43 had significant tumor shrinkage or regression, while 15 of them were reported to have achieved complete disappearance of cancerous tissue. More than a third of the patients showed positive responses to the treatment.
The researchers describe the drug's effect as particularly strong for a group of patients with a very poor prognosis, where therapeutic options are usually limited. According to Professor Kevin Harrington from the Institute of Cancer Research London, the results represent an "unprecedentedly strong response" in this category of patients.
Amibantaumab is currently being tested in about 60 clinical studies for various types of cancer, including lung, colon, brain and stomach cancer.
The drug works as a "smart" targeted therapy, blocking two key tumor growth pathways (EGFR and MET), while also activating the immune system to attack cancer cells.
Another important aspect is the method of administration: the drug is given by subcutaneous injection every three weeks, making it simpler than traditional intravenous treatments and easier for patients and hospitals.
The researchers also report a relatively manageable side effect profile, with most cases being mild to moderate and a low rate of treatment discontinuation.
However, experts emphasize that the results are still preliminary and larger studies are needed to confirm the long-term effectiveness and safety of the therapy before it can be widely used in clinical practice.
