monalizumab + cetuximab

Monalizumab + cetuximab is an **investigational combination regimen** that pairs two monoclonal antibodies: **monalizumab**, an immune checkpoint inhibitor targeting the NKG2A inhibitory receptor on cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes and NK cells, and **cetuximab**, an anti-EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) monoclonal antibody. The combination was developed for the treatment of patients with **recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M SCCHN)** who have progressed after platinum-based chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The trial rationale was based on preclinical and early-phase data suggesting synergy, with monalizumab enhancing anti-tumor immunity and boosting cetuximab’s antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Multiple phase II and phase III studies (notably INTERLINK-1) have shown the regimen has an acceptable safety profile, but the phase III trial did not demonstrate improvement in overall survival versus cetuximab alone[1][2][3][5][7].

Brand names

Erbitux

Other names

monalizumabcetuximab