NCT06422143 · Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
Pembrolizumab With or Without Maintenance Sacituzumab Tirumotecan (Sac-TMT; MK-2870) in Metastatic Squamous Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) [MK-2870-023]
What this study is about
This is a phase 3 study of pembrolizumab in combination with carboplatin/taxane (paclitaxel or nab-paclitaxel) followed by pembrolizumab with or without maintenance sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT; MK-2870) in first-line treatment of metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer.
View original scientific description
This is a phase 3 study of pembrolizumab in combination with carboplatin/taxane (paclitaxel or nab-paclitaxel) followed by pembrolizumab with or without maintenance sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT; MK-2870) in first-line treatment of metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer. It is hypothesized that pembrolizumab with maintenance sacituzumab tirumotecan is superior to pembrolizumab without sacituzumab tirumotecan maintenance with respect to overall survival (OS).
Interventions
BIOLOGICAL
Pembrolizumab
Intravenous (IV) infusion
BIOLOGICAL
sac-TMT
IV infusion
DRUG
Carboplatin
Participants receive AUC 6 or AUC 5 mg/mL/min IV infusion on Day 1 of each 21-day cycle for 4 cycles as background therapy during the study.
DRUG
Paclitaxel
Participants receive 200 mg/m\^2 or 175 mg/m\^2 IV infusion on Day 1 of each 21-day cycle for 4 cycles as background therapy during the study.
DRUG
Nab-paclitaxel
Participants receive 100 mg/m\^2 IV infusion on Days 1, 8 and 15 of each 21-day cycle for 4 cycles as background therapy during the study.
Primary outcome measures
Overall survival (OS)
Time frame: Up to ~50 months
OS is the time from randomization to death due to any cause.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Histologically or cytologically confirmed diagnosis of squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) \[Stage IV: M1a, M1b, M1c, American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging Manual, version 8\]
- Measurable disease per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST) 1.1 as assessed by the local site investigator/radiology
- Has life expectancy ≥3 months
- Has Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) score of 0 or 1 assessed within 7 days prior to allocation
- Archival tumor tissue sample or newly obtained core, incisional, or excisional biopsy of a tumor lesion not previously irradiated has been provided
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected participants must have well controlled HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART)
- Participants who are hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive are eligible if they have received hepatitis B virus (HBV) antiviral therapy for at least 4 weeks and have undetectable HBV viral load before allocatio
Where
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Burbank, California
- San Diego, California
- Golden, Colorado
- Grand Junction, Colorado
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Orange City, Florida
- Columbus, Georgia
- Marietta, Georgia
- Newnan, Georgia
- Chicago, Illinois
- Ypsilanti, Michigan
And 8 more locations — see the full list below.
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations