21-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Candidate Demonstrates Superior Immunogenicity

Merck today announced results from STRIDE-3, a Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating V116, the company’s investigational 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine specifically designed to protect adults.

The trial evaluated the immunogenicity, tolerability, and safety of V116 compared to a pneumococcal 20-valent conjugate vaccine (PCV20) in adults who had not previously received a pneumococcal vaccine.

Results from the study’s primary objectives are posted at this PVax link.

“These results provide strong evidence to support the immunogenicity of V116 compared to the standard of care in the prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia in adults,” said Dr. Eliav Barr, senior vice president, head of global clinical development and chief medical officer, Merck Research Laboratories, in a press release on November 28, 2023.

“We are excited by the potential of V116 to impact public health through primary prevention through the use of a population-specific strategy that targets the serotypes responsible for the majority of invasive pneumococcal disease in adults.”

According to U.S. CDC data from 2018-2021, the serotypes covered by V116 are responsible for approximately 83% of invasive pneumococcal disease in individuals 65 and older.

Based on the same CDC data, V116 includes eight unique serotypes not covered by currently licensed pneumococcal vaccines, responsible for about 30% of invasive pneumococcal disease in individuals 65 and older.

V116 would be the first pneumococcal conjugate vaccine designed for adults if approved, says Merck.

As of November 29, 2023, various pneumococcal vaccines are U.S. FDA-approved and available at clinics and pharmacies in the U.S.