Fennec Pharmaceuticals Announces Investigator-Sponsored Trial to Be Conducted by City of Hope in Metastatic Testicular Germ Cell Tumors

Core Insights - Fennec Pharmaceuticals is initiating a study to evaluate PEDMARK for preventing cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in adult men with stage II-III metastatic testicular germ cell tumors, reflecting a growing clinical interest in addressing hearing loss among cancer patients [1][4]. Company Overview - Fennec Pharmaceuticals is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on reducing the risk of ototoxicity in cancer patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy. The company has received FDA approval for PEDMARK in September 2022 and European Commission approval in June 2023 [24][25]. Study Details - The investigator-sponsored study by City of Hope will assess the addition of PEDMARK to standard cisplatin chemotherapy to reduce drug-induced ear damage in men with metastatic testicular germ cell tumors. The study is a Phase I trial (NCT07218913) [5][6]. Clinical Context - Cisplatin has significantly improved survival rates for patients with germ cell tumors, but it can lead to permanent hearing loss in up to 80% of survivors, impacting their quality of life [2][8]. The study aims to integrate hearing protection into comprehensive cancer care [4]. Product Information - PEDMARK (sodium thiosulfate injection) is the first FDA-approved therapy to reduce the risk of ototoxicity associated with cisplatin in pediatric patients aged one month and older with localized, non-metastatic solid tumors. It is also recommended for adolescent and young adult patients by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network [3][12]. Market Opportunity - Approximately 500,000 patients in the U.S. are diagnosed annually with cancers treatable by platinum-based chemotherapy, highlighting a significant market opportunity for PEDMARK. The incidence of ototoxicity varies between 60-90% depending on treatment specifics [13][9]. Future Collaborations - Multiple other investigator-initiated studies are under review or in advanced stages of contracting, which are expected to strengthen Fennec's clinical and commercial foundation [7].