Amgen Inc.: The Manufacturer of Vectibix
Amgen Inc., a global biopharmaceutical company based in Thousand Oaks, California, is the manufacturer responsible for the production and distribution of Vectibix (panitumumab). Amgen is a leader in biotechnology, developing innovative human therapeutics for serious illnesses. Vectibix, a targeted therapy for specific types of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), is a significant part of Amgen's oncology portfolio. Amgen not only manufactures the drug but also conducts clinical trials to explore new uses, such as its recent approval in combination with Lumakras for KRAS G12C-mutated mCRC.
The Journey of Vectibix: From Abgenix to Amgen
The development of Vectibix began with Abgenix Inc. and its XenoMouse platform technology, which was used to create the fully human monoclonal antibody, panitumumab. This technology uses genetically engineered mice to produce antibodies with human composition, reducing the likelihood of immune reactions. In 2006, Amgen acquired Abgenix, gaining complete ownership of panitumumab and the rights to its development and commercialization. This acquisition was crucial for Amgen to advance the drug through clinical trials and obtain regulatory approvals, including the initial FDA approval in 2006.
Understanding Vectibix and Its Mechanism of Action
Vectibix is a targeted therapy that inhibits the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Panitumumab, the active ingredient, is a monoclonal antibody that binds to EGFR, a protein on cell surfaces involved in growth and multiplication. EGFR is often over-expressed in colorectal cancer, promoting uncontrolled cell growth. By blocking EGFR, Vectibix disrupts these growth signals. It is effective in patients with wild-type RAS mCRC; mutations in KRAS and NRAS genes can affect the drug's efficacy. {Link: FDA Approves Vectibix® (Panitumumab) For Use In Wild-Type RAS ... https://www.amgen.com/newsroom/press-releases/2017/06/fda-approves-vectibix-panitumumab-for-use-in-wildtype-ras-metastatic-colorectal-cancer}
Comparing Vectibix with another EGFR inhibitor
Vectibix is compared to cetuximab (Erbitux), another anti-EGFR therapy.
| Feature | Vectibix (Panitumumab) | Cetuximab (Erbitux) |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Amgen Inc. | ImClone LLC (owned by Eli Lilly) |
| Antibody Type | Fully human | Chimeric (part mouse, part human) |
| Immune Response Risk | Lower due to fully human nature | Higher due to chimeric nature |
| Primary Indication | Wild-type RAS mCRC | Wild-type RAS mCRC and head and neck cancer |
| Companion Diagnostics | Requires RAS mutation test | Requires RAS mutation test |
Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation
Amgen is the manufacturer of Vectibix, a targeted therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer. The drug's development originated with Abgenix's innovative technology, and Amgen's acquisition of Abgenix in 2006 solidified its role in manufacturing and advancing the drug. Amgen's ongoing research and global partnerships have expanded the availability and potential uses of Vectibix, reflecting the company's commitment to developing advanced treatments. {Link: Amgen® SupportPlus | Vectibix® (panitumumab) https://www.vectibix.com/resources-amgen-supportplus}
