BMS, Roche to study skin cancer drugs

NEW YORK — Bristol-Myers Squibb will collaborate with Roche to investigate the use of a combination of the companies’ drugs in patients with a deadly form of skin cancer.

The companies will conduct a phase 1/2 trial to test the safety and efficacy of BMS’ Yervoy (ipilimumab) in combination with Roche’s investigational drug vemurafenib in patients with melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body.

“Metastatic melanoma is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer,” BMS SVP development and medical affairs Brian Daniels said. “We are excited to be working with Roche to evaluate the potential that together; Yervoy and vemurafenib could improve outcomes for melanoma patients.”