Pfizer announced the commercial launch of Cejemly (sugemalimab) in China for Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), marking the PD-L1 inhibitor’s second approved indication in the country. The therapy, developed by CStone Pharmaceuticals (HKG: 2616) under a license from Ligand Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: LGND), is now the only immunotherapy approved for both Stage III and IV NSCLC in China.
Drug Background
Cejemly was first approved in December 2021 for Stage IV NSCLC as a first-line treatment with chemotherapy. Pfizer secured commercialization rights in mainland China via a 2020 partnership with CStone, accompanied by a $200 million investment in the Chinese biotech firm.
Strategic Impact
The Stage III approval expands Cejemly’s market potential, leveraging Pfizer’s distribution network and CStone’s R&D expertise. The drug’s dual indication positions it as a key player in China’s NSCLC treatment landscape.-Fineline Info & Tech
