PTK/ZK likely to miss Phase III endpoint

Novartis (NVS; SWX:NOVN) and Schering (FSE:SCH; SHR) said a DSMB's interim analysis of the Phase III CONFIRM 2 trial to treat metastatic colorectal cancer showed a low probability that PTK/ZK plus FOLFOX-4 would demonstrate an improvement in overall survival, the primary endpoint. Investigators will be informed of the DSMB's findings to allow discussion about continuation of treatment. Additional results are expected in mid-2006. ...