NOVEMBER 12, 1998
Imutec Pharma Releases Additional Pancreatic Cancer Data
TORONTO, ONTARIO--
--- Results of recent studies to support filings for pivotal
trials ---
Imutec Pharma Inc. today announced additional preclinical data on
the efficacy of its lead anti-cancer product, Virulizin(R). These
data were obtained from studies performed at the University of
Nebraska Medical Center.
Imutec Pharma performed these supporting studies, to determine the
efficacy of Virulizin(R) in combination with Gemzar(R), in a human
tumor xenograft model commonly used for pancreatic cancer. After
extended daily administration, Virulizin(R) inhibited tumor growth
in this model to approximately the same extent as Gemzar(R), the
standard for first-line treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Furthermore, Virulizin(R) showed a statistically significant
additive anti-tumour activity when combined with Gemzar(R). In
addition, no adverse effects related to the administration of
Virulizin(R) were observed.
"We are encouraged by these results", commented Philippe G.
Lacaille, President and Chief Executive Officer of Imutec Pharma.
"These positive data from a human tumor xenograft model are
consistent with the very positive clinical trial results we
recently achieved. These date will add support to our regulatory
filings for a pivotal clinical trial program in North America for
pancreatic cancer."
In August 1998, Imutec Pharma announced positive results regarding
its Virulizin(R) Phase I/II pancreatic cancer trial at the Rush
Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center in Chicago. The overall
median survival of 6.8 months, and the six-month survival rate of
58 percent, confirm and extend previous studies performed by the
Company in Canada in pancreatic cancer patients. In the main Phase
II trial of Gemzar(R) in patients with 5-FU refractory pancreatic
cancer, the median survival was 3.85 months with a 6-month
survival of 31 percent. The results of the recent Imutec Pharma
trial document that Virulizin(R) has clinical activity that is at
least as good as what has been reported for Gemzar(R), in
previously treated patients, with a much better safety profile.
Imutec Pharma Inc. is a pharmaceutical company engaged in the
development and commercialization of innovative products for the
treatment of cancer. Through an active acquisition and
in-licensing program, Imutec Pharma's goal is to build and
clinically develop a portfolio of innovative drugs targeted at
life-threatening diseases. Thereafter, Imutec Pharma intends to
undertake late stage clinical development and marketing in
cooperation with strategic pharmaceutical partners. Founded in
1986, Imutec Pharma Inc. is a public company listed on the Toronto
Stock Exchange and the Montreal Stock Exchange under the symbol
IMT, and on the NASDAQ OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol IMUTF.
Except for historical information, this press release contains
forward-looking statements which reflect the Company's current
expectation regarding future events. These forward-looking
statements involve risks and uncertainties which may cause actual
results to differ materially from those statements. Those risks
and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changing market
conditions, the successful and timely completion of clinical
studies, the establishment of corporate alliances, the impact of
competitive products and pricing, new product development,
uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process, and
other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company's ongoing
quarterly filings, annual reports and 20-F filings.
Imutec Pharma's press releases are available through the Company's
Internet site: imutec.com
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Imutec Pharma Inc.
Paul W. Truscott, Jr.
Associate, Corporate Communications
(416) 724-1509, ext. 251
(416) 724-1167 (FAX)
Email: imutec@inforamp.net
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