Novartis halts phase-2 radioligand therapy Lu-NeoB after disappointing data, but reaffirms commitment to RLT

Novartis announced it is halting development of Lu-NeoB, a gastrin-releasing peptide receptor-targeting radioligand therapy, after phase-2 data failed to demonstrate sufficient efficacy.

The candidate had been evaluated in a phase-1 breast-cancer study and a phase-2 trial across solid tumours, the latter combined with chemotherapy and scheduled to conclude in 2031. Early clinical results did not justify advancing to the next stage.

Novartis said no new safety concerns were identified and that patients currently enrolled will continue treatment per protocol. The company reiterated its commitment to radioligand therapies, citing its approved products Pluvicto and Lutathera.

Pluvicto sales rose 43% to $651 million in the second quarter, highlighting the commercial importance of its existing radioligand portfolio as the Lu-NeoB program is discontinued.