Merck Pneumococcal vaccine gets USFDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation

"V116 is specifically designed to address strains of disease-causing pneumococcal bacteria that are most prevalent in adults, reflecting our population-specific approach to developing pneumococcal conjugate vaccines. V116 targets serotypes that account for 85% of all invasive pneumococcal disease in individuals aged 65 and over in the United States as of 20191 and it includes 8 serotypes not covered by currently licensed vaccines," said Dr. Eliav Barr, senior vice president, head of global clinical development and chief medical officer, Merck Research Laboratories. "We look forward to discussing the ongoing development of this investigational vaccine, including the approach for Phase 3 studies, with the FDA and other regulatory agencies."

The Breakthrough Therapy Designation is an FDA program designed to expedite the development and review of products intended for serious or life-threatening conditions. To qualify for this designation, preliminary clinical evidence must indicate that the product may demonstrate substantial improvement over currently available options on at least one clinically significant endpoint. The benefits of this Breakthrough Therapy Designation include more intensive guidance from the FDA on an efficient development program, access to a scientific liaison to help accelerate review time and potential eligibility for Priority Review if relevant criteria are met.