AstraZeneca reports Phase III SAFFRON trial shows Tagrisso combo cuts progression risk 45% and death risk 32%

AstraZeneca disclosed results of its Phase III SAFFRON study of Tagrisso combined with savolitinib in patients with EGFR‑mutated non‑small cell lung cancer. The regimen lowered the chance of disease progression or death by 45% and reduced overall‑death risk by 32% compared with platinum‑based chemotherapy. Median progression‑free survival extended to 7.6 months versus 5.4 months, and median overall survival was longer by 4.9 months. The company has filed a new‑drug application with the FDA and will present the data at the ESMO Congress 2026.

The company says the positive data support its pending FDA submission, which could add a new indication and drive future revenue. Analysts note that the trial outcome may improve market sentiment toward AZN ahead of regulatory review.

  • 1The SAFFRON Phase III trial evaluated Tagrisso plus savolitinib in EGFR‑mutated NSCLC patients.
  • 2The combination lowered the risk of disease progression or death by 45% versus chemotherapy.
  • 3It lowered the risk of death by 32% versus chemotherapy.
  • 4Median progression‑free survival was 7.6 months for the combo versus 5.4 months for the comparator.
  • 5Median overall survival was extended by 4.9 months compared with chemotherapy.
  • 6Seventy percent of patients on the combination were alive at one year versus 53% on chemotherapy.

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