Adagrasib Shows Strong Benefit in Fit Elderly but Limited Survival in Frail NSCLC Patients

Updated results show that adagrasib works differently in patients with KRAS G12C–mutated non–small cell lung cancer depending on their overall health and functional status.

In older patients who were still in good condition (performance status 0–1), the drug showed meaningful benefits. About 31% of patients responded to treatment, with cancer controlled for a median of 7.6 months and overall survival reaching 9.5 months. In contrast, patients with poorer health (performance status 2) had more limited results, with only 18% responding, shorter disease control of 2.7 months, and overall survival of 4.3 months. However, this group still experienced noticeable improvements in quality of life.

The treatment was generally manageable, but patients with poorer health had more side effects. Severe treatment-related side effects occurred more often in this group, and common issues included diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Around one in five patients stopped treatment بسبب side effects.

Overall, adagrasib appears to be an effective option for older patients who remain physically well, while its benefit is more limited in those with reduced functional status, despite some quality-of-life improvement.