Developed by Starpharma, DEP^® cabazitaxel is a patented dendrimer nanoparticle formulation of the drug cabazitaxel, which is marketed as Jevtana® and widely used in the treatment of prostate cancer under the tradename Jevtana^®. Unlike conventional cabazitaxel, DEP^® cabazitaxel is highly water-soluble, does not contain toxic detergent-like excipients associated with anaphylaxis, and avoids the need for steroid pre-medication.

In both preclinical and clinical studies, DEP® cabazitaxel has shown an improved side effect profile in terms of key adverse events, notably markedly reduced bone marrow toxicity demonstrated by lower rates of severe neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and severe anaemia, which are all reportedly experienced by a significant proportion of patients treated with Jevtana®.

Target indications:

• Advanced prostate cancer
• Platinum-resistant ovarian cancer
• Advanced gastro-oesophageal cancer

Patent filings: DEP^® cabazitaxel has patent filings to 2039 (plus up to an additional ~5 years).

DEP^® cabazitaxel is a clinical-stage product/candidate. It has not received a marketing or regulatory authorisation in any jurisdiction.