Johnson & Johnson Launched Lung Cancer Trial in July
The pharmaceutical firm began testing a combination therapy as a preoperative treatment for lung cancer patients.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Cancer
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Johnson & Johnson initiated a phase 2 clinical trial on July 28, 2026, to evaluate Leclaza and Rybrevant as preoperative treatments. This research aims to reduce tumor size and suppress micro-metastases in patients with surgically resectable EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer.
Why it matters
This clinical trial addresses the critical need for effective preoperative options in lung cancer care, though market adoption remains tied to high treatment costs and insurance reimbursement criteria. Successful outcomes could significantly improve surgical readiness and long-term prognosis for specific patient populations.
The phase 2 study focuses on 68 patients, while the annual cost per patient for the combined therapy is estimated at €207,250. Global sales for the regimen reached $289 million during the second quarter.
The players
Johnson & Johnson
This multinational corporation is a leading developer of pharmaceuticals and medical devices that conducts global clinical research.
Yuhan Corporation
A South Korean pharmaceutical company that maintains a strategic partnership for the development and commercialization of the lung cancer therapy.
The details
The trial is being conducted at 23 institutions across South Korea, the U.S., Taiwan, China, Canada, and Spain to assess the effectiveness of neoadjuvant therapy. By utilizing subcutaneous formulations, researchers aim to shorten administration times and reduce the burden of extended hospital stays for patients.
Timeline
October 2025: Commercialization of Leclaza and Rybrevant began in China.
March 2026: Leclaza entered the German health insurance reimbursement system.
May 2026: Ireland's NCPE raised concerns regarding reimbursement recommendations.
July 28, 2026: Johnson & Johnson began the phase 2 clinical trial.
April 2028: Expected completion date for the current phase 2 trial.
Health Landscape
The new trial builds upon the therapeutic benchmarks established by the European Lung Cancer Research Group's triple combination study. This initiative follows the findings of the earlier study, which reported a median overall survival of 19.9 months for patients receiving the triple combination therapy.
Patients may see improved surgical outcomes through reduced tumor size, provided their specific condition meets the study criteria. However, widespread access to these treatments remains dependent on individual regional health insurance reimbursement policies and high annual costs.
The takeaway
This trial highlights the ongoing shift toward using neoadjuvant therapies to improve surgical results in lung cancer care. Patients and their families should consult with oncologists about evolving treatment standards and potential access to clinical research programs.
What happens next
The clinical trial is scheduled for completion in April 2028, at which time results will be finalized for analysis.
Further reading
For more information on clinical advancements, visit the Cancer section.
More information
To search for specific clinical trial details, visit the clinical trial search portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 조선일보.
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