The rate of side effects from HLX22 (AC101), a next-generation HER2-targeting gastric cancer treatment developed by AbClon (174900.KQ) and Henlius, was reported at less than half the level of a potential competing drug. According to the company, if the drug shows comparable efficacy, clinicians will choose HLX22 as the standard treatment because of its lower toxicity.
Henlius, AbClon's global partner, released a special interview video featuring Professor Kato Ken of Japan's National Cancer Center through its official channel on Thursday, AbClon said Saturday. "In earlier trials, HLX22 was reported to have a very low rate of diarrhea side effects, less than half that of other drugs," Kato said. "If it shows comparable efficacy, clinicians in the field will choose HLX22, which has far less toxicity, as the standard treatment."
Kato also directly addressed the limitations of zanidatamab, a potential competing drug for HER2-positive gastric cancer treatment. "The competing drug zanidatamab has a fatal weakness in that, despite its excellent efficacy, severe Grade 3 or higher diarrhea side effects occur in more than 20% of cases during clinical trials," Kato pointed out.
Kato emphasized the concept of "time toxicity" and gave a high assessment of HLX22's value as a gastric cancer treatment option. He noted that because the everyday time afforded to cancer patients is precious, the core of treatment is ensuring patients do not waste time treating side effects such as decreased white blood cell counts, interstitial pneumonia, and severe diarrhea. "HLX22 is an innovative treatment option that helps patients spend their everyday time meaningfully, as it can maximize survival without compromising patients' quality of life (QoL)," he explained.
An AbClon official said, "HLX22 is the safest and most powerful alternative that has completely overcome the fatal side effects of global competing drugs." The official added, "Based on tangible Phase 3 results, including firm support from global scholars and the completion of first-patient dosing across all continents, its global commercialization value is rising higher than ever."
