GlaxoSmithKline's experimental cervical cancer
vaccine Ceravix, designed to prevent infection with
cancer-causing strains of the sexually transmitted
human papillomavirus, has been shown to be effective in
women up to age 55, The Wall Street Journal
reports. Data from a Phase III clinical trial of the
vaccine involving 666 women ages 26 to 55 showed it
was 100% effective in producing antibodies to HPV
types 16 and 18, which are responsible for about 70% of
cervical cancer cases. Previous study data showed the
vaccine is 100% effective in women ages 15 to 25.
Ceravix is one of
two late-stage cervical cancer vaccines in development.
Merck's Gardasil, which also focuses on
cancer-causing strains of HPV, has been submitted to
the Food and Drug Administration for review. An FDA
advisory panel has already urged the full agency to approve
Gardasil, and a decision is expected later this year.
Glaxo officials say the company plans to submit
Ceravix for FDA review by the end of the year. (The
Advocate)
