Bacteremia

Results from multiple Phase 3 trials of V116 and a real-world evidence study of pneumococcal serotypes presented at the 13th Meeting of the International Society of Pneumonia and Pneumococcal Diseases If approved, V116 would be the first pneumococcal conjugate vaccine specifically designed for adults RAHWAY, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merck & Co. (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced positive data from multiple Phase 3 studies evaluating V116, the company’s investigational, adult-specific 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, at the 13th Meeting of the International Society of Pneumonia and Pneumococcal Diseases (ISPPD) in Cape Town, South Africa. Across the clinical studies presented, V116 was shown to be immunogenic for all 21 serotypes covered by the vaccine in a variety of adult populations, including those who had not previously received a pneumococcal vaccine (pneumococcal vaccine-naïve), those who had previously received a pneumococcal vaccine (pneumococcal vaccine-experienced) and those with an increased risk of pneumococcal disease, including people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). V116 also elicited higher immune responses than the studied comparators for the serotypes unique to V116 in all STRIDE studies presented at the meeting. “Invasive pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia can cause serious illness, especially in older adults and those with immunocompromising conditions,” said Dr. Walter Orenstein, professor emeritus of medicine, epidemiology, global health and pediatrics at Emory University and member of Merck’s Scientific Advisory Committee. “These positive data demonstrate the potential for V116 to address an unmet need in adult pneumococcal disease prevention.” Key findings from the studies include: In pneumococcal vaccine-naïve adults 50 years of age and older (STRIDE-3 sub-group), V116 was immunogenic for all 21 serotypes across the studied age groups (50–64, 65–74 and 75–84 years), as assessed by serotype-specific opsonophagocytic activity (OPA) geometric mean titers (GMTs) at Day 30; In pneumococcal vaccine-experienced adults 50 years of age and older (STRIDE-6), V116 elicited comparable immune responses for the serotypes shared with PCV15 (pneumococcal 15-valent conjugate vaccine) or PPSV23 (pneumococcal vaccine, polyvalent [23-valent]) and higher immune responses for the serotypes covered by V116 only, regardless of the previous pneumococcal vaccine received or time since prior pneumococcal vaccination, as assessed by serotype-specific OPA GMTs at Day 30; In adults 18 years of age and older living with HIV (STRIDE-7), V116 elicited comparable immune responses to PCV15+PPSV23 for all 13 shared serotypes and higher immune responses for the eight serotypes covered by V116 only, as assessed by serotype-specific OPA GMTs and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) geometric mean concentrations (GMCs) at Day 30; Across all presented studies, V116 demonstrated a safety pro to the studied comparators, including PCV20 (pneumococcal 20-valent conjugate vaccine), PCV15 and PPSV23. “The extensive data presented this week reaffirm our confidence in the potential clinical value V116 could provide to a range of adult populations,” said Dr. Eliav Barr, senior vice president, head of global clinical development and chief medical officer, Merck Research Laboratories. “We are encouraged by the results of these studies showing that V116 has generated immune responses to the serotypes responsible for the majority of adult invasive pneumococcal disease.” In addition to Phase 3 clinical data on V116, Merck also presented preliminary data from the real-world evidence study in the U.S., Pneumococcal Pneumonia Epidemiology, Urine Serotyping, and Mental Outcomes (PNEUMO), which found that among 2,065 adults 50 years of age and older hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia between 2018 and 2022, 242 pneumococcal serotypes were detected. Of these serotypes, approximately 84% were covered by V116. One fourth (approximately 25%) of the detected serotypes were covered only by V116 and not by PCV15 or PCV20. Results from the PNEUMO study support that the serotypes in V116 account for the majority of pneumococcal disease (including invasive and non-invasive) in adults 50 years of age and older. These data are consistent with CDC surveillance data for invasive pneumococcal disease from 2018-2021, which show that V116 covers serotypes responsible for approximately 83% of invasive pneumococcal disease, including the eight serotypes unique to V116 which are responsible for approximately 30% of invasive pneumococcal disease in individuals 65 years of age and older. Several of the studies presented at ISPPD were included in the filing submission to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA granted V116 priority review with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA), or target action date, of June 17, 2024. If approved, V116 would be the first pneumococcal conjugate vaccine specifically designed for adults. An overview of the V116 late-stage development program is available here. Summary of Findings from Select Studies Presented at ISPPD Data from STRIDE-3 Sub-group (Abstract #379) The sub-group analysis of the pivotal STRIDE-3 (NCT05425732) trial evaluated immunogenicity in adults 50 years of age and older who had not previously received a pneumococcal vaccine (Cohort 1) by age groups (50–64, 65–74 and 75–84 years) (n=2,362). Results found that V116 was immunogenic for all 21 vaccine serotypes across the studied age sub-groups, as assessed by serotype-specific OPA GMTs 30 days post-vaccination. There was a slight downward trend in immune responses in adults 65–74 years of age and 75 years of age and older compared to adults 50–64 years of age. V116 had a safety pro to PCV20. Results from the STRIDE-3 trial were presented at the World Vaccine Congress West Coast in November 2023. Data from STRIDE-6 and STRIDE-6 Sub-group (Abstracts #353 and #520) STRIDE-6 (NCT05420961) is a Phase 3 trial investigating V116 in adults 50 years of age and older who had previously received a pneumococcal vaccine at least one year prior (n=712). Participants were enrolled based on previous pneumococcal vaccination with PPSV23, PCV15, PCV13 (pneumococcal 13-valent conjugate vaccine), PPSV23+PCV13, PCV13+PPSV23 or PCV15+PPSV23, and received either V116, PCV15 or PPSV23. Results showed that V116 was immunogenic across all cohorts, as assessed by OPA GMTs 30 days post-vaccination, and that V116 elicited comparable immune responses to the serotypes also covered by PCV15 and PPSV23 and higher immune responses for the serotypes covered only by V116. A STRIDE-6 sub-group analysis evaluating immunogenicity across all cohorts by time since prior pneumococcal vaccination found that V116 elicited comparable immune responses regardless of time since prior pneumococcal vaccination, including more than 10 years post-vaccination with PPSV23 (n=56), and 5–9 years post-vaccination with either PPSV23 or other pneumococcal vaccines (n=208). In this study, V116 had a safety pro to both PCV15 and PPSV23. Data from STRIDE-7 (Abstract #1093) STRIDE-7 (NCT05393037) is a Phase 3, double-blind study of V116 in adults living with HIV (n=304). Results showed that V116 was immunogenic for all serotypes covered by the vaccine, as assessed by OPA GMTs and IgG GMCs 30 days post-vaccination. V116 elicited comparable immune responses to the comparator, PCV15+PPSV23, for all 13 shared serotypes and higher immune responses for the eight serotypes covered only by V116. Fewer participants experienced adverse events (AEs) with V116 (71.6%) compared with PCV15+PPSV23 (91%), primarily due to fewer injection-site AEs. Data from STRIDE-9 (Abstract #1085) STRIDE-9 (NCT05633992) is a Phase 3, randomized, double-blind, active-comparator controlled study, which investigated V116 in Japanese adults 65 years of age and older who had not previously received a pneumococcal vaccine (n=450). Serotype-specific OPA responses were measured at baseline and 30 days post-vaccination and results demonstrated that V116 elicited noninferior immune responses for the 12 serotypes shared with PPSV23 and serotype 15B, (which is included in PPSV23 but not included in V116). V116 also elicited higher immune responses for the serotypes only covered by V116 and not PPSV23. V116 also had a comparable safety pro PPSV23. Data from PNEUMO U.S. Serotype Distribution Study (Abstract #308) The PNEUMO U.S. study evaluated pneumococcal serotype distribution among adults 50 years of age and older hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia (n=2,065), one of the non-invasive forms of pneumococcal disease, between 2018 and 2022 in three hospitals in Tennessee and Georgia. Urine samples from patients were evaluated for antigens from 30 pneumococcal serotypes using novel serotype-specific urinary antigen detection (SSUAD) assays (all serotypes in PCV15, PCV20 and V116 are included except 15B). Among the 242 serotypes detected by SSUAD assays, approximately 84% were covered by V116, compared to approximately 64% covered by PCV20. One fourth (approximately 25%) of the detected serotypes were covered by V116 only and not by PCV15 or PCV20. Additional Clinical Study Results Presented at ISPPD (Abstract #382 and #355) Data from Phase 3 clinical studies STRIDE-4 (NCT05464420) and STRIDE-5 (NCT05526716) were also presented at ISPPD. About V116 V116 is an investigational, 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in Phase 3 development for the prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia in the adult population. V116 is specifically designed to address Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes predominantly responsible for adult pneumococcal disease, including eight unique serotypes, 15A, 15C, 16F, 23A, 23B, 24F, 31 and 35B, which account for approximately 30% of adult disease, according to CDC data from 2018-2021. The serotypes covered by V116 are responsible for approximately 83% of invasive pneumococcal disease in individuals 65 years of age and older, based on the same CDC data. V116 is designed to be administered as a single dose to help prevent invasive pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia in adults. The V116 Phase 3 program includes multiple studies, including STRIDE-3 (NCT05425732), STRIDE-4 (NCT05464420), STRIDE-5 (NCT05526716), STRIDE-6 (NCT05420961), STRIDE-7 (NCT05393037), STRIDE-8 (NCT05696080), STRIDE-9 (NCT05633992) and STRIDE-10 (NCT05569954). About Pneumococcal Disease Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae. There are more than 100 different types (referred to as serotypes) of pneumococcal bacteria, which can affect adults differently than children. Certain serotypes threaten to put more people at risk for invasive pneumococcal illnesses, such as bacteremia (infection in the bloodstream); bacteremic pneumonia (pneumonia with bacteremia); and meningitis (infection of the coverings of the brain and spinal cord), as well as non-invasive pneumonia (when pneumococcal disease is confined to the lungs). While healthy adults can suffer from pneumococcal disease, patient populations particularly vulnerable to infection include older adults and those with certain chronic or immunocompromising health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease and liver disease. Mortality from invasive pneumococcal disease is highest among adults 50 years of age and older. Merck’s Commitment to Pneumococcal Disease Protection Merck has been at the forefront of pneumococcal disease prevention through vaccination for more than four decades and remains committed to helping to protect people of all ages from this disease. Merck’s ongoing pneumococcal vaccine development program is designed to provide options that address the specific needs of different populations, including infants and children, healthy adults and at-risk sub-groups. This approach recognizes that disease burden in pediatric and adult populations is often driven by different bacterial strains, or serotypes, and aims to address unmet needs by offering vaccine options that target serotypes posing the greatest global risk to each population. To learn more about Merck’s pipeline, visit . About Merck At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world – and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit and connect with us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (the “company”) includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline candidates that the candidates will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site ( ).

ECHELON-3 trial of ADCETRIS in combination with lenalidomide and rituximab showed significant improvement in primary endpoint of overall survival and in secondary endpoints of progression free survival and overall response rate versus lenalidomide and rituximab plus placebo, regardless of CD30 expression Pfizer to discuss regulatory submission with FDA, potentially leading to eighth indication for ADCETRIS NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) today announced that a Phase 3 study of the antibody-drug conjugate ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) in combination with lenalidomide and rituximab for the treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) showed a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in overall survival (OS) compared to lenalidomide and rituximab plus placebo. Positive outcomes were also observed in key secondary endpoints, including progression free survival (PFS) and overall response rate (ORR). The safety and tolerability of ADCETRIS in the ECHELON-3 trial were consistent with what has been previously presented for patients with relapsed/refractory DLBCL treated with ADCETRIS in clinical trials. Full data will be submitted for presentation at an upcoming medical meeting. “This is the third Phase 3 study in a type of lymphoma to demonstrate an overall survival benefit for an ADCETRIS combination. Based on the strong results from ECHELON-3, we’re excited that ADCETRIS could address an area of high unmet need in patients with relapsed or refractory DLBCL irrespective of CD30 expression,” said Roger Dansey, M.D., Chief Development Officer, Oncology, Pfizer. “The results are particularly encouraging because the study evaluated heavily pre-treated patients, including some who received prior CAR-T therapy.” DLBCL is the most common type of lymphoma and is a fast-growing, aggressive blood cancer. Approximately 40% of patients with DLBCL do not respond to initial treatment or develop relapsed disease after first-line treatment. ADCETRIS is a standard of care for patients with certain lymphomas and is approved for seven indications in the U.S with more than 55,000 patients treated since its first U.S. approval in 2011. More than 140,000 patients have been treated with ADCETRIS globally. Pfizer plans to share the ECHELON-3 data with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to potentially support regulatory filing in the U.S. About ECHELON-3 ECHELON-3 is an ongoing, randomized, double-blind, multicenter Phase 3 study evaluating ADCETRIS plus lenalidomide and rituximab versus lenalidomide and rituximab plus placebo in adult patients with relapsed/refractory DLBCL, regardless of CD30 expression, who have received two or more prior lines of therapy and are ineligible for stem cell transplant or CAR-T therapy. In this global study, 230 patients were randomized across North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. The primary endpoint is OS in the intent to treat population, with key secondary endpoints of PFS and ORR as assessed by investigator. Other secondary endpoints include complete response rate, duration of response, safety and tolerability. About Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most frequent type of lymphoma and is an aggressive, difficult to treat disease.1 More than 25,000 cases of DLBCL are diagnosed each year in the United States, accounting for more than 25 percent of all lymphoma cases.2 DLBCL can develop spontaneously or as a result of diseases such as chronic lymphocytic lymphoma/small lymphocytic lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, or marginal zone lymphoma.3 Up to 40 percent of patients relapse or have refractory disease after frontline treatment. About ADCETRIS ADCETRIS is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) comprised of a CD30-directed monoclonal antibody attached by a protease-cleavable linker to a microtubule disrupting agent, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), utilizing Seagen's proprietary technology. The ADC employs a linker system that is designed to be stable in the bloodstream but to release MMAE upon internalization into CD30-positive tumor cells. ADCETRIS is approved in seven indications in the U.S.: Adult patients with previously untreated Stage III/IV classical Hodkin lymphoma (cHL) in combination with doxorubicin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (2018) Pediatric patients 2 years and older with previously untreated high risk cHL in combination with doxorubicin, vincristine, etoposide, prednisone and cyclophosphamide (2022) Adult patients with cHL at high risk of relapse or progression as post-autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT) consolidation (2015) Adult patients with cHL after failure of auto-HSCT or after failure of at least two prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimens in patients who are not auto-HSCT candidates (2011) Adult patients with previously untreated systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL) or other CD30-expressing peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL), including angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma and PTCL not otherwise specified, in combination with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone (2018) Adult patients with sALCL after failure of at least one prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimen. (2011) Adult patients with primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (pcALCL) or CD30-expressing mycosis fungoides (MF) after prior systemic therapy (2017) Pfizer and Takeda jointly develop ADCETRIS. Under the terms of the collaboration agreement, Pfizer has U.S. and Canadian commercialization rights, and Takeda has rights to commercialize ADCETRIS in the rest of the world. Pfizer and Takeda are funding joint development costs for ADCETRIS on a 50:50 basis, except in Japan where Takeda is solely responsible for development costs. ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) for injection U.S. Important Safety Information BOXED WARNING PROGRESSIVE MULTIFOCAL LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY (PML): JC virus infection resulting in PML, and death can occur in ADCETRIS-treated patients. CONTRAINDICATION Contraindicated with concomitant bleomycin due to pulmonary toxicity (e.g., interstitial infiltration and/or inflammation). WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Peripheral neuropathy (PN): ADCETRIS causes PN that is predominantly sensory. Cases of motor PN have also been reported. ADCETRIS-induced PN is cumulative. Monitor for symptoms such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain, or weakness. Patients experiencing new or worsening PN may require a delay, change in dose, or discontinuation of ADCETRIS. Anaphylaxis and infusion reactions: Infusion-related reactions (IRR), including anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Monitor patients during infusion. If an IRR occurs, interrupt the infusion and institute appropriate medical management. If anaphylaxis occurs, immediately and permanently discontinue the infusion and administer appropriate medical therapy. Premedicate patients with a prior IRR before subsequent infusions. Premedication may include acetaminophen, an antihistamine, and a corticosteroid. Hematologic toxicities: Fatal and serious cases of febrile neutropenia have been reported with ADCETRIS. Prolonged (≥1 week) severe neutropenia and Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia or anemia can occur with ADCETRIS. Administer G-CSF primary prophylaxis beginning with Cycle 1 for adult patients who receive ADCETRIS in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated Stage III/IV cHL or previously untreated PTCL, and pediatric patients who receive ADCETRIS in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated high risk cHL. Monitor complete blood counts prior to each ADCETRIS dose. Monitor more frequently for patients with Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Monitor patients for fever. If Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia develops, consider dose delays, reductions, discontinuation, or G-CSF prophylaxis with subsequent doses. Serious infections and opportunistic infections: Infections such as pneumonia, bacteremia, and sepsis or septic shock (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. Closely monitor patients during treatment for infections. Tumor lysis syndrome: Patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden may be at increased risk. Monitor closely and take appropriate measures. Increased toxicity in the presence of severe renal impairment: The frequency of ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions and deaths was greater in patients with severe renal impairment. Avoid use in patients with severe renal impairment. Increased toxicity in the presence of moderate or severe hepatic impairment: The frequency of ≥Grade 3 adverse reactions and deaths was greater in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment. Avoid use in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment. Hepatotoxicity: Fatal and serious cases have occurred in ADCETRIS-treated patients. Cases were consistent with hepatocellular injury, including elevations of transaminases and/or bilirubin, and occurred after the first ADCETRIS dose or rechallenge. Preexisting liver disease, elevated baseline liver enzymes, and concomitant medications may increase the risk. Monitor liver enzymes and bilirubin. Patients with new, worsening, or recurrent hepatotoxicity may require a delay, change in dose, or discontinuation of ADCETRIS. PML: Fatal cases of JC virus infection resulting in PML have been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. First onset of symptoms occurred at various times from initiation of ADCETRIS, with some cases occurring within 3 months of initial exposure. In addition to ADCETRIS therapy, other possible contributory factors include prior therapies and underlying disease that may cause immunosuppression. Consider PML diagnosis in patients with new-onset signs and symptoms of central nervous system abnormalities. Hold ADCETRIS if PML is suspected and discontinue ADCETRIS if PML is confirmed. Pulmonary toxicity: Fatal and serious events of noninfectious pulmonary toxicity, including pneumonitis, interstitial lung disease, and acute respiratory distress syndrome, have been reported. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms, including cough and dyspnea. In the event of new or worsening pulmonary symptoms, hold ADCETRIS dosing during evaluation and until symptomatic improvement. Serious dermatologic reactions: Fatal and serious cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) have been reported with ADCETRIS. If SJS or TEN occurs, discontinue ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy. Gastrointestinal (GI) complications: Fatal and serious cases of acute pancreatitis have been reported. Other fatal and serious GI complications include perforation, hemorrhage, erosion, ulcer, intestinal obstruction, enterocolitis, neutropenic colitis, and ileus. Lymphoma with pre-existing GI involvement may increase the risk of perforation. In the event of new or worsening GI symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, perform a prompt diagnostic evaluation and treat appropriately. Hyperglycemia: Serious cases, such as new-onset hyperglycemia, exacerbation of pre-existing diabetes mellitus, and ketoacidosis (including fatal outcomes) have been reported with ADCETRIS. Hyperglycemia occurred more frequently in patients with high body mass index or diabetes. Monitor serum glucose and if hyperglycemia develops, administer anti-hyperglycemic medications as clinically indicated. Embryo-fetal toxicity: Based on the mechanism of action and animal studies, ADCETRIS can cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential of this potential risk, and to use effective contraception during ADCETRIS treatment and for 2 months after the last dose of ADCETRIS. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during ADCETRIS treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of ADCETRIS. ADVERSE REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions (≥20% in any study) are peripheral neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, neutropenia, upper respiratory tract infection, pyrexia, constipation, vomiting, alopecia, decreased weight, abdominal pain, anemia, stomatitis, lymphopenia, mucositis, thrombocytopenia, and febrile neutropenia. DRUG INTERACTIONS Concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors has the potential to affect the exposure to monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). Closely monitor adverse reactions. USE IN SPECIAL POPULATIONS Lactation: Breastfeeding is not recommended during ADCETRIS treatment. Please see the full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING, for ADCETRIS here. About Pfizer Oncology At Pfizer Oncology, we are at the forefront of a new era in cancer care. Our industry-leading portfolio and extensive pipeline includes game-changing mechanisms of action to attack cancer from multiple angles, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), small molecules, bispecific antibodies and other immunotherapy biologics. We are focused on delivering transformative therapies in some of the world’s most common cancers, including breast cancer, genitourinary cancer, hematology-oncology and thoracic cancers, which includes lung cancer. Driven by science, we are committed to accelerating breakthroughs to extend and improve patients’ lives. About Pfizer: Breakthroughs That Change Patients’ Lives At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety, and value in the discovery, development, and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments, and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world's premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments, and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 175 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at . In addition, to learn more, please visit us on and follow us on X at @Pfizer and @Pfizer_News, LinkedIn, YouTube and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Pfizer. Disclosure Notice The information contained in this release is as of March 12, 2024. Pfizer assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this release as the result of new information or future events or developments. This release contains forward-looking information about Pfizer Oncology and ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin), including its potential benefits, its potential for relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), potential for a regulatory filing in the U.S. and the ongoing investigational trial for ADCETRIS in combination with lenalidomide and rituximab, that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties regarding the commercial success of ADCETRIS; the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including the ability to meet anticipated clinical endpoints, commencement and/or completion dates for our clinical trials, regulatory submission dates, regulatory approval dates and/or launch dates, as well as the possibility of unfavorable new clinical data and further analyses of existing clinical data; the risk that clinical trial data are subject to differing interpretations and assessments by regulatory authorities; whether regulatory authorities will be satisfied with the design of and results from our clinical studies; whether and when drug applications may be filed in particular jurisdictions for ADCETRIS with lenalidomide and rituximab or as a single agent for any potential indication; whether and when any applications that may be pending or filed for ADCETRIS, may be approved by regulatory authorities, which will depend on myriad factors, including making a determination as to whether the product's benefits outweigh its known risks and determination of the product's efficacy and, if approved, whether ADCETRIS with lenalidomide and rituximab or as a single agent will be commercially successful; decisions by regulatory authorities impacting labeling, manufacturing processes, safety and/or other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of ADCETRIS with lenalidomide and rituximab or as a single agent; uncertainties regarding the impact of COVID-19 on Pfizer’s business, operations and financial results; and competitive developments. A further description of risks and uncertainties can be found in Pfizer’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 and in its subsequent reports on Form 10-Q, including in the sections thereof captioned “Risk Factors” and “Forward-Looking Information and Factors That May Affect Future Results”, as well as in its subsequent reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and available at and . 1 National Library of Medicine. Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma. . Updated April 24, 2023. 2 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). 3 National Library of Medicine. Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma. . Updated April 24, 2023. 4 Duarte C, Kamdar M. “Management Considerations for Patients With Primary Refractory and Early Relapsed Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.” American Society of Clinical Oncology. . April 25, 2023 View source version on businesswire.com: Contacts Media Contact: +1 (212) 733-1226 PfizerMediaRelations@pfizer.com Investor Contact: +1 (212) 733-4848 IR@pfizer.com Source: Pfizer Inc. View this news release online at:

Proceeds to be used to continue to advance rigorously designed clinical trials of Armata's high purity phage-based therapeutic candidates LOS ANGELES, March 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSE American: ARMP) ("Armata" or the "Company"), a biotechnology company focused on pathogen-specific bacteriophage therapeutics for antibiotic-resistant and difficult-to-treat bacterial infections, today announced that it has entered into a secured credit agreement with Innoviva Strategic Opportunities LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Innoviva, Inc. (Nasdaq: INVA) (collectively, "Innoviva"), Armata's largest shareholder. The gross proceeds to be received by the Company at closing are $35 million before deducting transaction-related expenses. Proceeds from the $35 million new financing transaction will be used to advance the Company's lead therapeutic phage candidates, including AP‐PA02 and AP‐SA02, which target infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. "Innoviva has been an invaluable partner to Armata over the years, and we view this latest financing as further evidence of their confidence in our mission, our clinical development progress, and our team," stated Dr. Deborah Birx, chief executive officer of Armata. "Our phage candidates are highly differentiated through their purity and specificity for their bacterial targets, and our 'cocktail' approach continues to demonstrate a favorable safety and tolerability profile, allowing us to continue to evaluate higher doses and longer durations of treatment in advance of registrational Phase 3 trials. This financing will enable Armata to fully enroll both ongoing Phase 2 trials, one in acute bacteremia and one in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, and prepare the Company for two pivotal trials. I would like to thank the team at Innoviva for their continued support." The credit agreement provides for a secured term loan facility in an aggregate amount of $35 million at an interest rate of 14.0% per annum with a maturity date of June 4, 2025. Repayment of the loan is guaranteed by the Company's domestic subsidiaries, and the loan is secured by substantially all of the assets of the Company and the subsidiary guarantors. About Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Armata is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development of pathogen-specific bacteriophage therapeutics for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant and difficult-to-treat bacterial infections using its proprietary bacteriophage-based technology. Armata is developing and advancing a broad pipeline of natural and synthetic phage candidates, including clinical candidates for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and other pathogens. Armata is committed to advancing phage with drug development expertise that spans bench to clinic including in-house phage-specific cGMP manufacturing. Forward Looking Statements This communication contains "forward-looking" statements, including, without limitation, statements related to Armata's bacteriophage development programs, Armata's ability to set up or operate R&D and manufacturing facilities, Armata's ability to meet expected milestones, Armata's future success or failure, Armata's ability to be a leader in the development of phage-based therapeutics, Armata's expected receipt of grant funding, and statements related to the timing and results of clinical trials, including the anticipated results of clinical trials of AP-PA02 and AP-SA02, and Armata's ability to develop new products based on natural bacteriophages and synthetic bacteriophages. Any statements contained in this communication that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon Armata's current expectations. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Armata's actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, risks related to the ability of Armata's lead clinical candidates, AP-PA02 and AP-SA02, to be more effective than previous candidates; that the top line results are indicative of the final data; Armata's ability to expedite development of AP-PA02 and AP-SA02; Armata's ability to advance its preclinical and clinical programs and the uncertain and time-consuming regulatory approval process; Armata's ability to develop products based on bacteriophages and synthetic phages to kill bacterial pathogens; the Company's expected market opportunity for its products; Armata's ability to sufficiently fund its operations as expected, including obtaining additional funding as needed, and to refinance, repay or restructure its debt; and whether Armata will incur unforeseen expenses or liabilities. Additional risks and uncertainties relating to Armata and its business can be found under the caption "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in Armata's filings and reports with the SEC, including in Armata's Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on March 16, 2023, and in its subsequent filings with the SEC. Armata expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Armata's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based. Media Contacts: At Armata: Pierre KymeArmata Pharmaceu ticals, Inc. [email protected] 310-665-2928 x234 Investor Relations: Joyce Allaire LifeSci Advisors, LLC [email protected] 212-915-2569 SOURCE Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc.