Merck Announces Phase 3 KEYNOTE-689 Results for Keytruda in Resected Head and Neck Cancer

Merck today announced positive results from the Phase 3 KEYNOTE-689 trial evaluating KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) as perioperative treatment for patients with resectable locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). The trial met its primary endpoint, demonstrating a statistically significant improvement in event-free survival compared to standard of care. The 2-year EFS rate was 63.5% for KEYTRUDA-based perioperative therapy versus 56.2% for standard of care. These results support the potential of KEYTRUDA as a perioperative treatment for resectable locally advanced HNSCC. Merck plans to submit regulatory applications based on these results.