Novartis, BMS in Opdivo Clinical Collaboration

Novartis and Bristol-Myers Squibb have entered into a clinical research collaboration to investigate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of Mekinist (trametinib) in combination with Opdivo (nivolumab) and Opdivo + Yervoy (ipilimumab) regimen as a potential treatment option for metastatic colorectal cancer. 

BMS will conduct the study, which is expected to establish recommended dose regimens and the preliminary anti-tumor activity of the combination therapies. Both companies will evaluate the results to determine optimal approaches and potential clinical development of these combinations.

"Novartis has a longstanding heritage in exploring the combination of medicines to broaden our knowledge of mutational driven cancers and develop innovative treatments," said Vas Narasimhan, MD, head, Global Drug Development and chief medical officer, Novartis. "Along with our ongoing internal immuno-oncology efforts, the expansion of our collaboration with Bristol-Myers Squibb further advances our collective goals to advance the science and support patients in need."