Tarlatamab for Small Cell Lung Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment called tarlatamab (also known as AMG 757) for individuals with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) that has returned or worsened after standard treatment. The trial aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of tarlatamab alone and in combination with other strategies, such as pembrolizumab (another cancer drug) or additional monitoring methods. Individuals whose SCLC has returned or worsened after a platinum-based treatment might be suitable candidates for this study. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this new treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, there are specific requirements about the timing of prior anti-cancer therapies and certain treatments, so it's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that tarlatamab is generally safe for people with small cell lung cancer. In earlier studies, patients who had tried many treatments responded well to tarlatamab over an extended period, suggesting its promise in terms of safety. Another study found that the side effects were manageable, meaning they were not severe and could be controlled or treated.
This trial tests tarlatamab alone and with pembrolizumab, another cancer treatment drug. Previous research has not identified serious safety issues with these combinations. Overall, the treatment appears well-tolerated, meaning most people can take it without serious problems. Since this is an early-phase trial, the main goal is to understand the treatment's safety and how it works in the body.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Unlike the standard treatments for small cell lung cancer, which often include chemotherapy and immunotherapy, Tarlatamab offers a fresh approach by harnessing the body's immune system in a novel way. Researchers are excited about Tarlatamab because it targets a specific protein called DLL3, which is present in most small cell lung cancer cells but not in healthy tissues. This targeted action could potentially result in more effective treatment with fewer side effects. Additionally, Tarlatamab can be administered with innovative strategies, such as in outpatient settings with digital monitoring, making it more convenient for patients. These unique features set Tarlatamab apart from existing options and provide hope for better outcomes in treating this aggressive cancer.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for small cell lung cancer?
Research has shown that tarlatamab could be a promising treatment for small cell lung cancer (SCLC), particularly for patients who haven't responded to other treatments. In earlier studies, tarlatamab helped shrink tumors for an extended period. This trial includes several treatment arms, such as tarlatamab monotherapy and tarlatamab combined with pembrolizumab. In previous studies, patients who received tarlatamab lived for an average of 13.6 months, longer than those who received standard chemotherapy. Additionally, studies found that 63% of patients experienced a partial response, with their tumors shrinking, when given higher doses. Although some side effects, like cytokine release syndrome (an overreaction of the immune system), were noted, the treatment shows potential benefits for SCLC patients.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
MD
Principal Investigator
Amgen
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults over 18 with small cell lung cancer that's come back or didn't respond after chemo can join. They must have stable brain metastases, good organ function, and an ECOG status of 0-2. No recent immunosuppressants, untreated brain issues, severe immune reactions to cancer drugs, active infections or major surgery within the last month.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive tarlatamab monotherapy or in combination with other therapies, with monitoring for safety and tolerability
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- AMG 757
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Amgen
Lead Sponsor
Robert A. Bradway
Amgen
Chief Executive Officer since 2012
MBA from Harvard Business School
Paul Burton
Amgen
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD from University of London, PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology from Imperial College London